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Once Upon a Courtesan
A brand new series from 10-Time USA Today Bestselling Author Jess Michaels
Arabella Comerford always had too many dreams and desires to ever be happy with the forced marriage and staid life her cruel father planned for her. She sees her way out when she spies on a handsome gentleman engaged in elicit activities with a woman at Vauxhall Garden. Ultimately it leads her to her own path as a celebrated courtesan with freedom and money. But she always wondered about that man who got away and the startling green eyes that haunt her fantasies.
Silas Windham has been gone from London for nearly six years, after his father’s death caused a rift between him and the marquess’s legitimate children. Now he’s back thanks to the illness of his half-brother and unsure what to do next. Until he encounters Arabella at a hell and realizes she’s the woman who he once caught spying on him in a garden. The one he hasn’t been able to get out of his mind since.
Long-held memories and desires explode into a passionate affair that can only be temporary for both of them. But as their passions soften into deeper and deeper connection, it leaves them both wondering if two wild, broken people might be able to let go of the past and become everything to each other.
This is the first book in the Comerford Courtesans series.
Arabella Comerford always had too many dreams and desires to ever be happy with the forced marriage and staid life her cruel father planned for her. She sees her way out when she spies on a handsome gentleman engaged in elicit activities with a woman at Vauxhall Garden. Ultimately it leads her to her own path as a celebrated courtesan with freedom and money. But she always wondered about that man who got away and the startling green eyes that haunt her fantasies.
Silas Windham has been gone from London for nearly six years, after his father’s death caused a rift between him and the marquess’s legitimate children. Now he’s back thanks to the illness of his half-brother and unsure what to do next. Until he encounters Arabella at a hell and realizes she’s the woman who he once caught spying on him in a garden. The one he hasn’t been able to get out of his mind since.
Long-held memories and desires explode into a passionate affair that can only be temporary for both of them. But as their passions soften into deeper and deeper connection, it leaves them both wondering if two wild, broken people might be able to let go of the past and become everything to each other.
This is the first book in the Comerford Courtesans series.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2025
35 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Jess Michaels
128 books1,577 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 1, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the first book in a new series by Jess Michaels. She is an author that I tend to consistently enjoy in terms of historical romances - interesting characters and relationships outside of the main couple, good level of dynamic charisma in the principle relationships. I felt that this first book in the series hits it for what I would expect and enjoy in one of her books, and again, the Donville Masquerade plays a part - another frequent thread through her stories now.
Arabella Comerford is the eldest of three sisters. They are the only children of a cruel father who has been planning on how to use them to his best advantage to raise his standing - and that is to sell off his daughters in matrimony, to the highest bidder with the greatest standing. Arabella rebels as best she can but is essentially under his thumb, until she witnesses something by chance on an outing to Vauxhall that opens up her mind to new options for her future.
After observing a sensual interlude between a famous courtesan and her lover, Arabella reaches out to her and escapes her father's plans for her by becoming a courtesan herself. This story primarily takes place several years after the incident that sets Arabella on her new path in life, and her two sisters also followed her into the courtesan life. She is now currently between protectors, and the man she witnessed in that interlude, Silas Windham, had just returned to London. He made a significant impression on her at the time, especially as they espied each other during his interlude, and he has been central in much of her fantasies since, so when they meet at the Donville masquerade, it leads to their own explosive liaison, and the start of a passionate love affair.
But of course things are not as simple as that, as Michaels lays out a story that shows the closeness of the sisters and the complexities of being a courtesan and how it impacts them all, including their sisterly love, concerns, and protectiveness of each other. On top of this, Arabella is the direct target of her father's growing ire and bitterness, as she started their rebellion, taking away his future and reputation by openly using his family name. Silas, in the meantime, also has his own family relationships fraught with angst and misunderstanding. He and Arabella start out in their affair with firmly set boundaries, knowing that she will be searching for a new protector, and he ultimately has no plans on remaining in England. But as they spend more time together, they grow closer and more intertwined in each other's lives, and cannot stop their hearts from growing closer, and perhaps wishing for more than a mere affair.
A solid historical romance from an author I always find enjoyable. Hot, sexy, and sensual, but with the underlying sweetness of sisterly love and female friendships as well. This is a love story that is outside of the aristocracy and the Ton, and crossing those social barriers as well. There is drama and tension from family angst on both their sides, and groundwork is laid out for the next story in the series as well that definitely builds up my desire to see the next storyline play out. Also, loving the aunt character and the implied relationship in that back story and am looking forward to how that is played out in full - hopefully.
4 stars out of 5
This is the first book in a new series by Jess Michaels. She is an author that I tend to consistently enjoy in terms of historical romances - interesting characters and relationships outside of the main couple, good level of dynamic charisma in the principle relationships. I felt that this first book in the series hits it for what I would expect and enjoy in one of her books, and again, the Donville Masquerade plays a part - another frequent thread through her stories now.
Arabella Comerford is the eldest of three sisters. They are the only children of a cruel father who has been planning on how to use them to his best advantage to raise his standing - and that is to sell off his daughters in matrimony, to the highest bidder with the greatest standing. Arabella rebels as best she can but is essentially under his thumb, until she witnesses something by chance on an outing to Vauxhall that opens up her mind to new options for her future.
After observing a sensual interlude between a famous courtesan and her lover, Arabella reaches out to her and escapes her father's plans for her by becoming a courtesan herself. This story primarily takes place several years after the incident that sets Arabella on her new path in life, and her two sisters also followed her into the courtesan life. She is now currently between protectors, and the man she witnessed in that interlude, Silas Windham, had just returned to London. He made a significant impression on her at the time, especially as they espied each other during his interlude, and he has been central in much of her fantasies since, so when they meet at the Donville masquerade, it leads to their own explosive liaison, and the start of a passionate love affair.
But of course things are not as simple as that, as Michaels lays out a story that shows the closeness of the sisters and the complexities of being a courtesan and how it impacts them all, including their sisterly love, concerns, and protectiveness of each other. On top of this, Arabella is the direct target of her father's growing ire and bitterness, as she started their rebellion, taking away his future and reputation by openly using his family name. Silas, in the meantime, also has his own family relationships fraught with angst and misunderstanding. He and Arabella start out in their affair with firmly set boundaries, knowing that she will be searching for a new protector, and he ultimately has no plans on remaining in England. But as they spend more time together, they grow closer and more intertwined in each other's lives, and cannot stop their hearts from growing closer, and perhaps wishing for more than a mere affair.
A solid historical romance from an author I always find enjoyable. Hot, sexy, and sensual, but with the underlying sweetness of sisterly love and female friendships as well. This is a love story that is outside of the aristocracy and the Ton, and crossing those social barriers as well. There is drama and tension from family angst on both their sides, and groundwork is laid out for the next story in the series as well that definitely builds up my desire to see the next storyline play out. Also, loving the aunt character and the implied relationship in that back story and am looking forward to how that is played out in full - hopefully.
4 stars out of 5
October 23, 2025
Jess Michaels was one of the first authors I started reading when I got a Kindle in 2015. This is actually by 87th book by her and that includes 10 books she wrote as Jenna Petersen. I think after 87 books, you might guess I consider her one of my favorite authors. She has some hot and steamy series so really looking forward to this one.
So I have to say I'm not a huge fan of stories with courtesans or ex-courtesans. Jess writes a lot of stories with them in them but she writes so good and I love her story telling, I can't not read them. :) I admit I really loved this couple, Arabella and Silas. I liked that she emphasized more on them and their story and relationship, than past "protectors". I felt it made it more engaging. Sex was freakin' off the chain and super hot. Overall it was a really great read. Definitely would recommend this and frankly all her books.
So I have to say I'm not a huge fan of stories with courtesans or ex-courtesans. Jess writes a lot of stories with them in them but she writes so good and I love her story telling, I can't not read them. :) I admit I really loved this couple, Arabella and Silas. I liked that she emphasized more on them and their story and relationship, than past "protectors". I felt it made it more engaging. Sex was freakin' off the chain and super hot. Overall it was a really great read. Definitely would recommend this and frankly all her books.
October 3, 2025
Arabella Comerford always had too many dreams and desires to ever be happy with the forced marriage and staid life her cruel father planned for her. She sees her way out when she spies on a handsome gentleman engaged in elicit activities with a woman at Vauxhall Garden. Ultimately it leads her to her own path as a celebrated courtesan with freedom and money. Silas Windham left London after his father’s death now six years he’s back thanks to the illness of his half-brother and unsure what to do next. Until he encounters Arabella at the Donville Masquerade and realizes she’s the woman who he once caught spying on him in a garden. The one he hasn’t been able to get out of his mind since.
The first in the series about three sisters who become notorious courtesans. I loved both Silas & Arabella both strong, both having suffered horrid childhoods & both who have thought about that night at Vauxhall. Their first meeting is electric, steamy & leads to them deciding to have fun. I was drawn in from the start & read it straight through on a cool, wet, windy day – it was ideal for keeping me warm! I loved how the couple’s relationship deepened & grew, of course there was help & hindrance from family & friends. There were a couple of twists at the end but Silas & Arabella were there for each other supporting & caring. A very well written, engrossing, emotional, steamy romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The first in the series about three sisters who become notorious courtesans. I loved both Silas & Arabella both strong, both having suffered horrid childhoods & both who have thought about that night at Vauxhall. Their first meeting is electric, steamy & leads to them deciding to have fun. I was drawn in from the start & read it straight through on a cool, wet, windy day – it was ideal for keeping me warm! I loved how the couple’s relationship deepened & grew, of course there was help & hindrance from family & friends. There were a couple of twists at the end but Silas & Arabella were there for each other supporting & caring. A very well written, engrossing, emotional, steamy romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 12, 2025
Once Upon a Courtesan is a fast-paced, sexy historical romance with a sweet second-chance thread.
Arabella, the eldest daughter of a cruel father, refuses to be trapped in a life without freedom. She reinvents herself as a courtesan and embraces independence, though she never forgets the man with green eyes she once spied at Vauxhall Gardens. Silas, the illegitimate son of a marquess, returns to London after six years away and immediately recognizes Arabella as the woman he has never forgotten.
Their reunion ignites quickly—by 18 percent into the book, the two leads are already naked—and the mix of longing, tenderness and heat drives the story. Both characters are well developed, with Arabella carrying her oldest-daughter sense of responsibility and Silas struggling to fit with his half-siblings.
This is an easy, enjoyable read with plenty of spice - I mean "courtesan" is right there in the title. Michaels balances the steam with enough emotional depth to make the romance feel genuine, even as the plot moves quickly.
Rating is rounded up from 3.5/3.75 for me.
Arabella, the eldest daughter of a cruel father, refuses to be trapped in a life without freedom. She reinvents herself as a courtesan and embraces independence, though she never forgets the man with green eyes she once spied at Vauxhall Gardens. Silas, the illegitimate son of a marquess, returns to London after six years away and immediately recognizes Arabella as the woman he has never forgotten.
Their reunion ignites quickly—by 18 percent into the book, the two leads are already naked—and the mix of longing, tenderness and heat drives the story. Both characters are well developed, with Arabella carrying her oldest-daughter sense of responsibility and Silas struggling to fit with his half-siblings.
This is an easy, enjoyable read with plenty of spice - I mean "courtesan" is right there in the title. Michaels balances the steam with enough emotional depth to make the romance feel genuine, even as the plot moves quickly.
Rating is rounded up from 3.5/3.75 for me.
October 8, 2025
Wow that ending! I’m still recovering. What I loved most was there was no third act break up. Both our characters were really just a delight. Arabella is a woman who is strong, kind, loving, and caring. She has not been jaded by what she has seen in her job as a courtesan. Her relationship with her sisters and Simone was just lovely. Silas feels let down by those he calls family but that is also where he finds his strength to be true to himself. It was really sweet. This was very open door, the author out did herself really. Can’t wait for the next one.
November 24, 2025
Once Upon a Courtesan by Jess Michaels
The Comerford Courtesans #1
~ Pivotal moments provide new insights that if pursued can change the course of one’s life ~ Arabella’s visit to Vauxhall and what she saw made such a change in hers ~ Excellent introduction to a new series by one of my go-to authors ~ Loved it! ~
What I liked:
* Arabella Comerford: oldest of three daughters, independent, proactive, protective, caring, kind, knowing, loves and is loved by her sisters, has a bit of “wild” that some want to tame, knows what she wants, and she wants Silas
* Silas Windham: illegitimate youngest son of a marquess, difficult backstory, a bit of a rogue, well-traveled and educated, bright, witty, a little bit wicked, attracted to Arabella, has an opportunity to have what he has always wanted, excellent book boyfriend
* Evelina and Julia: Arabella’s younger sisters that escaped their father and followed their sister – looking forward to reading their stories
* Phoebe, Charles, and Reginald: Silas’s older siblings that make overtures to him after having been less than welcoming when he was a child
* Simone Stanhope: courtesan that took Arabella under her wing and mentored her
* Caroline: aunt to the Comerford sisters, had a difficult backstory, wondering if perhaps she will have a book, too, and if she and Simone might be special friends in the future
* Wanting to find out what will happen to both sets of siblings
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* Knowing that there is another book to look forward to soon and that it is Evelina’s story
* All of it except…
What I didn’t like:
* Arabella’s father who saw his daughters as commodities to further himself
* Silas’s father who was an evil and abusive person
* Thinking about how difficult life for many, especially women, was in this era
* Having to wait for the next book
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Will I read more in this series? Without a doubt
Thank you to NetGalley and Passionate Pen, LLC for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
The Comerford Courtesans #1
~ Pivotal moments provide new insights that if pursued can change the course of one’s life ~ Arabella’s visit to Vauxhall and what she saw made such a change in hers ~ Excellent introduction to a new series by one of my go-to authors ~ Loved it! ~
What I liked:
* Arabella Comerford: oldest of three daughters, independent, proactive, protective, caring, kind, knowing, loves and is loved by her sisters, has a bit of “wild” that some want to tame, knows what she wants, and she wants Silas
* Silas Windham: illegitimate youngest son of a marquess, difficult backstory, a bit of a rogue, well-traveled and educated, bright, witty, a little bit wicked, attracted to Arabella, has an opportunity to have what he has always wanted, excellent book boyfriend
* Evelina and Julia: Arabella’s younger sisters that escaped their father and followed their sister – looking forward to reading their stories
* Phoebe, Charles, and Reginald: Silas’s older siblings that make overtures to him after having been less than welcoming when he was a child
* Simone Stanhope: courtesan that took Arabella under her wing and mentored her
* Caroline: aunt to the Comerford sisters, had a difficult backstory, wondering if perhaps she will have a book, too, and if she and Simone might be special friends in the future
* Wanting to find out what will happen to both sets of siblings
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* Knowing that there is another book to look forward to soon and that it is Evelina’s story
* All of it except…
What I didn’t like:
* Arabella’s father who saw his daughters as commodities to further himself
* Silas’s father who was an evil and abusive person
* Thinking about how difficult life for many, especially women, was in this era
* Having to wait for the next book
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Will I read more in this series? Without a doubt
Thank you to NetGalley and Passionate Pen, LLC for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
October 5, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
The story revolves around two individuals, Arabella Comerford (a courtesan), and Silas Windham (an illegitimate son) who shared a brief encounter in the past, both not knowing who the other person was. Arabella desires to be free from her father's conniving plans for marriage, and Silas was 'sent away' to America after the death of his father.
The story then picks up six years later when Arabella is now a celebrated courtesan, and Silas returns from America, and the pair reunite.
As a fan of historical fiction, naturally I had to read this, and I was glad that I did.
This is my first time reading Jess Michaels, and I like the way she writes. She has a way of explaining words in a different manner, without outrightly saying what it means, but the reader understands.
The pacing of the book was pretty fast right off the bat, but even so, it doesn't feel rushed at all. I think both FMC and MMC has great chemistry, with each of them having emotional baggage that they needed to work through, but were still open with each other and they could understand each other's moods and intentions.
The world from a Courtesan's point of view is an interesting concept, and it is a pretty refreshing take for me. I applaud Jess for taking a stab at writing this series and for showing us how the world looks from a different lens.
This is a second chances romance story, and it was written pretty well, with just the right amount of push and pull from both parties, making me want to read more. I could understand the motivations behind the actions of our main characters' decisions.
The book does contain some spicy scenes, and it starts just a few chapters into the book. However it's not written in a way that is all just about the spice. Readers get to enjoy the story as well.
I'm definitely looking forward to her second book in this series.
The story revolves around two individuals, Arabella Comerford (a courtesan), and Silas Windham (an illegitimate son) who shared a brief encounter in the past, both not knowing who the other person was. Arabella desires to be free from her father's conniving plans for marriage, and Silas was 'sent away' to America after the death of his father.
The story then picks up six years later when Arabella is now a celebrated courtesan, and Silas returns from America, and the pair reunite.
As a fan of historical fiction, naturally I had to read this, and I was glad that I did.
This is my first time reading Jess Michaels, and I like the way she writes. She has a way of explaining words in a different manner, without outrightly saying what it means, but the reader understands.
The pacing of the book was pretty fast right off the bat, but even so, it doesn't feel rushed at all. I think both FMC and MMC has great chemistry, with each of them having emotional baggage that they needed to work through, but were still open with each other and they could understand each other's moods and intentions.
The world from a Courtesan's point of view is an interesting concept, and it is a pretty refreshing take for me. I applaud Jess for taking a stab at writing this series and for showing us how the world looks from a different lens.
This is a second chances romance story, and it was written pretty well, with just the right amount of push and pull from both parties, making me want to read more. I could understand the motivations behind the actions of our main characters' decisions.
The book does contain some spicy scenes, and it starts just a few chapters into the book. However it's not written in a way that is all just about the spice. Readers get to enjoy the story as well.
I'm definitely looking forward to her second book in this series.
October 10, 2025
I loved this book. It left me feeling satisfied, hopeful, and on a high note. I couldn’t get enough of Silas and Arabella as their explosive passion turned into something neither were expecting or wanting.
A relationship between a courtesan and the natural son of a marquess was always meant to be temporary. But after a missed connection years prior, Arabella quietly held a torch for Silas and Silas never forgot the shared moment.
I loved the dynamic of their relationship, the intent and expectation was never marriage and were both committed to it. But the reasons felt different than they usually are in HR when MC don’t want to marry and I loved how it played out.
Arabella and Silas have always been more than others in their lives want to handle but to each other it’s this characteristic that draws them together. They both face varying family issues, adding to the plot and development. The bond between Arabella and her sisters are strong but tense with her father; whereas, Silas is trying to reconcile with his siblings that only seems to dig up decade old hurts.
There’s a sneak peak into book two at the end that has me counting down to January. There was enough setup for it and I’d recommend reading this one before book two.
Once Upon a Courtesan is the first book in The Comerford Courtesans series.
There are five open door encounters.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
A relationship between a courtesan and the natural son of a marquess was always meant to be temporary. But after a missed connection years prior, Arabella quietly held a torch for Silas and Silas never forgot the shared moment.
I loved the dynamic of their relationship, the intent and expectation was never marriage and were both committed to it. But the reasons felt different than they usually are in HR when MC don’t want to marry and I loved how it played out.
Arabella and Silas have always been more than others in their lives want to handle but to each other it’s this characteristic that draws them together. They both face varying family issues, adding to the plot and development. The bond between Arabella and her sisters are strong but tense with her father; whereas, Silas is trying to reconcile with his siblings that only seems to dig up decade old hurts.
There’s a sneak peak into book two at the end that has me counting down to January. There was enough setup for it and I’d recommend reading this one before book two.
Once Upon a Courtesan is the first book in The Comerford Courtesans series.
There are five open door encounters.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2025
Once Upon a Courtesan has a refreshing historical romance premise: three sisters have chosen to be courtesans rather than be married off by their cruel father. Arabella is the main character of the first book in the series, and she is in love with a man she saw in Vauxhall Gardens on a memorable evening in the past.
Silas Windham, the mysterious man in the Gardens, was also captivated by the beautiful woman he saw that night. He has been in America for several years, and has just returned to London at his half-brother’s request to resolve a family matter.
Arabella and Silas are introduced and meet early in the book. Their relationship follows a predictable timeline: they sleep together, then spend more time together. They fall for each other quickly, almost instantly. But will they stay together?
I wanted to love this book because the description and plot sounded different from other historical romances I’ve read recently. The events of the book felt really formulaic, and I didn’t feel a strong connection between Arabella and Silas. There was no banter or hesitation when they got together, and the story fell flat for me as it moved through their courtship.
Once Upon a Courtesan is a historical romance novel that would appeal to a reader searching for a light story with lots of steam.
Thank you to Jess Michaels, The Passionate Pen LLC, and NetGalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Silas Windham, the mysterious man in the Gardens, was also captivated by the beautiful woman he saw that night. He has been in America for several years, and has just returned to London at his half-brother’s request to resolve a family matter.
Arabella and Silas are introduced and meet early in the book. Their relationship follows a predictable timeline: they sleep together, then spend more time together. They fall for each other quickly, almost instantly. But will they stay together?
I wanted to love this book because the description and plot sounded different from other historical romances I’ve read recently. The events of the book felt really formulaic, and I didn’t feel a strong connection between Arabella and Silas. There was no banter or hesitation when they got together, and the story fell flat for me as it moved through their courtship.
Once Upon a Courtesan is a historical romance novel that would appeal to a reader searching for a light story with lots of steam.
Thank you to Jess Michaels, The Passionate Pen LLC, and NetGalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2025
No strings attached... right?
Arabella & Silas
Trotted out and nearly sold as a broodmare by her grasping father at 17, she saw and seized her path to independence in one of Vauxhall’s darkest corners. The life of a courtesan would give her control over her own destiny if she played her cards right – and so she learned from the best, becoming London’s most illustrious mistress.
Forced to grow up with his much older half-siblings by their vindictive father, a controlling and abusive marquess, he left for America the day after the man’s funeral. It was also the day after his most erotic encounter at Vauxhall. Not his companion, but the girl who watched has lived in his dreams for six years – and now he’s back home.
Their paths cross days after his return, and they hook up for a bit of fun... a bit that soon stirs much deeper feelings.
Both suffered tragic youths, both berated for not taming their inner ‘wild’, both choosing to live instead of bend or break. They find solace, tenderness, care and of course, scorching all-consuming passion – a seasoned rake and a courtesan, what did you expect? – in each other’s arms. But he’s leaving again soon, and she’ll eventually need a new protector...
Fun with a deadline? Or love of a lifetime?
Enter his judgemental brothers (stick with them, they come with a twist), her relentless tormentor of a father, her sisters (also courtesans), her aunt, her mentor, and his sweet sister with her own tale of woe. And of course everybody meddles – some meaning well, other less so.
I loved this story so much! I was completely enthralled by this couple’s journey and all its highs and lows. What touched me most was the raw vulnerable, private moments. There’s something heartbreakingly beautiful and pure about how these MCs’ jagged broken pieces perfectly fit together, the push & pull, their inner torment and their unconditional love and support for each other.
A gorgeous emotional read, and an exquisite series starter!
I can’t wait for what’s next!
Arabella & Silas
Trotted out and nearly sold as a broodmare by her grasping father at 17, she saw and seized her path to independence in one of Vauxhall’s darkest corners. The life of a courtesan would give her control over her own destiny if she played her cards right – and so she learned from the best, becoming London’s most illustrious mistress.
Forced to grow up with his much older half-siblings by their vindictive father, a controlling and abusive marquess, he left for America the day after the man’s funeral. It was also the day after his most erotic encounter at Vauxhall. Not his companion, but the girl who watched has lived in his dreams for six years – and now he’s back home.
Their paths cross days after his return, and they hook up for a bit of fun... a bit that soon stirs much deeper feelings.
Both suffered tragic youths, both berated for not taming their inner ‘wild’, both choosing to live instead of bend or break. They find solace, tenderness, care and of course, scorching all-consuming passion – a seasoned rake and a courtesan, what did you expect? – in each other’s arms. But he’s leaving again soon, and she’ll eventually need a new protector...
Fun with a deadline? Or love of a lifetime?
Enter his judgemental brothers (stick with them, they come with a twist), her relentless tormentor of a father, her sisters (also courtesans), her aunt, her mentor, and his sweet sister with her own tale of woe. And of course everybody meddles – some meaning well, other less so.
I loved this story so much! I was completely enthralled by this couple’s journey and all its highs and lows. What touched me most was the raw vulnerable, private moments. There’s something heartbreakingly beautiful and pure about how these MCs’ jagged broken pieces perfectly fit together, the push & pull, their inner torment and their unconditional love and support for each other.
A gorgeous emotional read, and an exquisite series starter!
I can’t wait for what’s next!
October 10, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book confused me right off the bat and after hitting the halfway mark, I couldn't continue. I like to joke that I'm in my regency-reading era right now, so when I saw this book pop up, I was excited to read something from a popular historical romance author I hadn't tried yet. I'm sorry to say that I was disappointed. The story opens with Arabella being shocked and appalled at the idea that her father wants to marry her off to an older man for money. While it is appalling, there is no love lost between her and her father, so I'm unsure as to why it was such a shocking concept. Women (ahem, girls) of this time period knew that this was to be their likely fate and the outrage at the idea of it almost had me double checking what time period I was in. If the book took away mentions of peerage, I likely would not have even known what time period it was set in; it lacked description, the dialogue was modern, and the insta-lust overwhelming. There wasn't any part of the plot that was compelling to me and it seems I have found an HR author that I will not be pursuing.
This book confused me right off the bat and after hitting the halfway mark, I couldn't continue. I like to joke that I'm in my regency-reading era right now, so when I saw this book pop up, I was excited to read something from a popular historical romance author I hadn't tried yet. I'm sorry to say that I was disappointed. The story opens with Arabella being shocked and appalled at the idea that her father wants to marry her off to an older man for money. While it is appalling, there is no love lost between her and her father, so I'm unsure as to why it was such a shocking concept. Women (ahem, girls) of this time period knew that this was to be their likely fate and the outrage at the idea of it almost had me double checking what time period I was in. If the book took away mentions of peerage, I likely would not have even known what time period it was set in; it lacked description, the dialogue was modern, and the insta-lust overwhelming. There wasn't any part of the plot that was compelling to me and it seems I have found an HR author that I will not be pursuing.
November 2, 2025
📚 Once Upon a Courtesan by Jess Michaels
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 spice level!)
Arabella Comerford refuses to be sold off like a prize mare. Instead, she claims her freedom, her pleasure, and her power—becoming a celebrated courtesan with a heart full of dreams and a memory of one unforgettable man with green eyes…
Enter Silas Windham: brooding, banished, and back in London. When fate throws them together again, sparks fly—and not just the polite kind. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their past? Complicated. Their future? Uncertain… but oh, how I rooted for them.
This is historical romance with a twist—bold, sensual, and full of heart. Jess Michaels delivers a heroine who reclaims her story and a hero who just might be brave enough to love her for it. I’m already counting down to the next Comerford sister’s tale! 💃📖💔
🖤 For fans of: fierce heroines, forbidden longing, and steamy second chances
🎧 Bonus tip: Pair with a moody classical playlist and a cozy blanket for max swoon.
Get ready for this adventure.
October 15, 2025
The Comerford sisters have chosen to live as courtesans versus bowing to their cruel father and his ideas of good matches for them. This is Arabella's story and she was the first to seek the lifestyle after witnessing an encounter between Silas and a courtesan when she was 17. Six years later, Silas has returned from America and discovers Arabella wants to pursue an affair. He remembers her from years past and is equally intrigued. He is an illegitimate child that left England after his father's death and is called back by his siblings to try and make amends.
A different type of historical romance as our story revolves around characters not accepted in society at that time. The romance and chemistry between our characters is so well done - Jess Michaels knows how to write a spicy romance. I am looking forward to the other sisters get their HEAs as well!
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A different type of historical romance as our story revolves around characters not accepted in society at that time. The romance and chemistry between our characters is so well done - Jess Michaels knows how to write a spicy romance. I am looking forward to the other sisters get their HEAs as well!
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
A solid start to a new historical romance series. Arabella Comerford and her younger sisters all became courtesans to escape their scheming father. She has learned never to get her heart involved in her arrangements, but when Silas Windham reappears in London, she’s tempted for the first time. Silas has only returned at the behest of his estranged family, and the lovely Arabella provides a welcome distraction. Only they might be what each has been searching for, if they can get past society’s scorn.
The chemistry between Silas and Arabella was very hot, but their genuine emotional and intellectual connection was even better. I look forward to the rest of the series.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
The chemistry between Silas and Arabella was very hot, but their genuine emotional and intellectual connection was even better. I look forward to the rest of the series.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2025
'You are fizz in champagne....These are things that make the world go round.'
To lock eyes with a man in a moment in time that makes monumental change to your whole world is the where Arrabella finds herself at the age of 17. After 6 years of imgaining this man Silas in all her private moments he arrives back in the country and the sparks ignite between them. There is sparks, steam and spice when they connect and through their connection they both find they have had traumatic experiences. The depth of their feelings for each other are hidden because of their roles in society.
This book has all the super spicy intimacy moments.
The snippet offered at the end of this from book 2 is very intriguing.
I would thoroughly recommend this book.
To lock eyes with a man in a moment in time that makes monumental change to your whole world is the where Arrabella finds herself at the age of 17. After 6 years of imgaining this man Silas in all her private moments he arrives back in the country and the sparks ignite between them. There is sparks, steam and spice when they connect and through their connection they both find they have had traumatic experiences. The depth of their feelings for each other are hidden because of their roles in society.
This book has all the super spicy intimacy moments.
The snippet offered at the end of this from book 2 is very intriguing.
I would thoroughly recommend this book.
October 3, 2025
A chemistry-driven romance!
I found this romance captivating. I loved the main characters, Arabella and Silas, and their unique intertwined histories.
They both suffered greatly during their younger years, and even today, the repercussions of their experiences continue to affect their lives.
Several years ago, their paths crossed, and this moment had a lasting impact on each of them. They met after six years, both seeing it as an opportunity to fulfill their fantasies that they had imagined over the years. But, surprise, the interlude will not be just a passionate moment, as deeper feelings emerge.
I recommend this steamy romance, which blends desire and emotional depth.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found this romance captivating. I loved the main characters, Arabella and Silas, and their unique intertwined histories.
They both suffered greatly during their younger years, and even today, the repercussions of their experiences continue to affect their lives.
Several years ago, their paths crossed, and this moment had a lasting impact on each of them. They met after six years, both seeing it as an opportunity to fulfill their fantasies that they had imagined over the years. But, surprise, the interlude will not be just a passionate moment, as deeper feelings emerge.
I recommend this steamy romance, which blends desire and emotional depth.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2025
*****Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of Once Upon a Courtesan by Jess Michaels in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, I found this book to be a fun and engaging read overall. While I enjoyed the plot and the historical setting, I have to admit that I never fully connected with the characters in a way that made me truly root for them. Still, as a huge fan of aristocratic romance novels set in 1800s London, I was completely swept up in the world the author created. While Arabella's journey was interesting, I'm finding myself even more intrigued by her sister Evelina's story and can't wait to see what comes next for her.
Honestly, I found this book to be a fun and engaging read overall. While I enjoyed the plot and the historical setting, I have to admit that I never fully connected with the characters in a way that made me truly root for them. Still, as a huge fan of aristocratic romance novels set in 1800s London, I was completely swept up in the world the author created. While Arabella's journey was interesting, I'm finding myself even more intrigued by her sister Evelina's story and can't wait to see what comes next for her.
October 4, 2025
Steamy..
Arabella, at seventeen, witnessed a courtesan an Silas in the final throes of sex. That was her sexual awakening and set her on a path to be a celebrated courtesan herself, instead of being bartered away into a forced marriage by her father. Now, she controls her destiny.
Six years later, the handsome Silas returns and sees Arabella again. They locked eyes in his final throes.
They never forgot each other and now, they are on equal footing, and it’s steamy times.
Recommend.
Arabella, at seventeen, witnessed a courtesan an Silas in the final throes of sex. That was her sexual awakening and set her on a path to be a celebrated courtesan herself, instead of being bartered away into a forced marriage by her father. Now, she controls her destiny.
Six years later, the handsome Silas returns and sees Arabella again. They locked eyes in his final throes.
They never forgot each other and now, they are on equal footing, and it’s steamy times.
Recommend.
October 4, 2025
WOW! Talk about hot, I was surprised that the words did not combust as I read them. Arabella and Silas were like a match and gas, going up in flames. It’s a well written story that grabbed my attention at the beginning and held it until the end. It was full of emotions that ran from the highest to the lowest. The storyline was well thought out and presented in a manner that made it a pleasure to read. I loved the story that gave Silas and Arabella their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2025
This was a great, light and comfy, historical romance that is exactly what is on the tin.
The premise is realistic, though just fun enough to get you into that fun romance headspace. The pasts are tragic, but in a manner that gives the characters dimension, not triteness. The FMC being a courtesan means the story can fast track to the good stuff. In this book the spice is instant while the love is slow-burn. The climactic drama happens to the couple, not between the couple, so the HEA really works.
Overall, a great historical that will please fans of the genre.
The premise is realistic, though just fun enough to get you into that fun romance headspace. The pasts are tragic, but in a manner that gives the characters dimension, not triteness. The FMC being a courtesan means the story can fast track to the good stuff. In this book the spice is instant while the love is slow-burn. The climactic drama happens to the couple, not between the couple, so the HEA really works.
Overall, a great historical that will please fans of the genre.
October 8, 2025
Basic romance. The story line was interesting but the characters were meh to me. this wasnt my favorite historical romance. the banter and tension were minimal and it was insta lust/love kind of thing so the spice was there. I know with the title of courtesan it would be there but I thought there would be banter. it was okay did enjoy the story for a bit.
thank you netgalley and the passionate pen LLC for the opportunity to read this book.
thank you netgalley and the passionate pen LLC for the opportunity to read this book.
September 28, 2025
I cannot believe I am saying this but this is not my favorite Jess Michaels. It was insta-lust and insta-sex . I did not feel the connection between Silas and Arabella but I loved Silas and his interactions with his family. Jess’ writing is, as always, superb. If you hang onto reading, the last twenty percent is fantastic. I am very interested in Evaline and Julie. 3.5 rounded up.
October 14, 2025
I liked this book but wasn’t in love with it. Nothing I really hated but it moved a bit slow for me and I lost interest here and there. I really loved Arabella. It is so wonderful to see a female character so incredibly comfortable in her sexuality, confident in herself but totally lovable and caring. The romance was fine. This is definitely a you made an impact on my life so I have strong feelings for you type of romance from the start. It was a good romance but not something I felt entirely. Ending was anti climatic. I’m definitely excited for Evelina’s book because her and Harry are so not meant to be. Can’t wait her for happy ending!
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
October 11, 2025
Emotion that has no boundaries gives temptation free reign. Michaels pushes every button. From a wildfire heroine to a mysterious hero with a chip on his shoulder and revenge in his heart, Arabella and Silas turn heartache into heat. Once Upon a Courtesan is a firecracker.
October 4, 2025
Amazing once again. I loved this heroine. Taking her life for herself. Our hero ah they do fall hard sometimes. Well worth a read. Enjoy
October 16, 2025
Another great read from Ms Michael's. Great story very strong characters. And even some of the ( at first adversaries), get to shine. Can't wait for next book and more tales of our adorable couple.
December 1, 2025
Arabella Comeford ran away from her aristocratic home to escape the unwanted marriage her father was arranging for her and became a sought after courtesan. A chance encounter with Silas Windham, who Arabella has wanted since witnessing him and a courtesan in an intimate encounter at Vauxhall six year prior leads to a whirlwind affair. Their relationship faces difficulties when Silas' aristocratic family attempts to bring him back into the fold but one of the brothers has a problem with his closeness to Arabella. Also Silas feels guilt for the life Arabella chose after learning she became a courtesan shortly after witnessing him at Vauxhall. A sexy romp with strained family dynamics on both sides that must be addressed before Silas and Arabella could be together. Not your typical historical HEA.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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