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Awaken at Night
Awaken at Night (At Night Series, Book 1)
A Darkish Historical Romance
By Harlow Brígh
In Regency London, Lady Emerson Haven is a spirited heiress, raised wild and free from the ton’s stifling expectations. After a family tragedy leaves her alone in the world she’s placed under the guardianship of Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere. Tasked with molding her for London’s glittering Season, Lathen harbors dark secrets in a hidden world of forbidden passions and unrestrained desires.
Emerson’s fiery defiance sparks a dangerous attraction, drawing her into Lathen’s seductive and perilous orbit. As passion ignites amidst opulent balls, whispered intrigues, and candlelit encounters, their forbidden connection deepens, blurring the line between protector and predator. Will Emerson surrender to the dark allure that binds her to Lathen, or defy the man who holds her heart and fate?
Awaken at Night is a slow-burn, darkish historical romance blending the lush nostalgia of classic romance with modern intensity. Perfect for fans of dark Regency romance and forbidden love, this steamy historical tale weaves passion, power, and peril.
Content Contains mature themes, sexual content, violence, and character death. Reader discretion advised.
intended for readers 18+.
A Darkish Historical Romance
By Harlow Brígh
In Regency London, Lady Emerson Haven is a spirited heiress, raised wild and free from the ton’s stifling expectations. After a family tragedy leaves her alone in the world she’s placed under the guardianship of Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere. Tasked with molding her for London’s glittering Season, Lathen harbors dark secrets in a hidden world of forbidden passions and unrestrained desires.
Emerson’s fiery defiance sparks a dangerous attraction, drawing her into Lathen’s seductive and perilous orbit. As passion ignites amidst opulent balls, whispered intrigues, and candlelit encounters, their forbidden connection deepens, blurring the line between protector and predator. Will Emerson surrender to the dark allure that binds her to Lathen, or defy the man who holds her heart and fate?
Awaken at Night is a slow-burn, darkish historical romance blending the lush nostalgia of classic romance with modern intensity. Perfect for fans of dark Regency romance and forbidden love, this steamy historical tale weaves passion, power, and peril.
Content Contains mature themes, sexual content, violence, and character death. Reader discretion advised.
intended for readers 18+.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2025
38 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Harlow Brígh
3 books7 followersI'm an author, a mum, a dog mom, born and raised in Alaska. I’m a bit of a seasoned soul, having grown up devouring 1980s historical romance novels. Picture me as a young reader, tucked under the covers with a flashlight, lost in those sweet, happily-ever-after tales, convinced they held the blueprint for true love. Oh, the blissful naivety of youth!
As my tastes matured, I gravitated toward spicier, darker contemporary authors. When I began writing my own novels, I wanted to blend the nostalgic charm of 1980s historical romance with the bold intensity of modern dark romance. The result is my At Night series, a dark(ish) historical romance collection that’s close to my heart.
When asked to categorize my novels, I wrestled with the question before landing on “dark(ish).” I know it’s not an official term, but it feels right. My stories aren’t light and fluffy, but this first book, Awaken at Night, starts as a slow burn—perhaps not as dark as some expect from the genre. Rest assured, hold onto your garters, because the series will dive deeper into the shadows as we journey forward together!
As my tastes matured, I gravitated toward spicier, darker contemporary authors. When I began writing my own novels, I wanted to blend the nostalgic charm of 1980s historical romance with the bold intensity of modern dark romance. The result is my At Night series, a dark(ish) historical romance collection that’s close to my heart.
When asked to categorize my novels, I wrestled with the question before landing on “dark(ish).” I know it’s not an official term, but it feels right. My stories aren’t light and fluffy, but this first book, Awaken at Night, starts as a slow burn—perhaps not as dark as some expect from the genre. Rest assured, hold onto your garters, because the series will dive deeper into the shadows as we journey forward together!
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 12, 2025
Awaken at Night is a sumptuous and darkly beautiful tale that burns slow but bright. Harlow Brígh delivers a masterful blend of Regency elegance and gothic temptation, where passion simmers beneath layers of propriety and danger.
Lady Emerson Haven is the kind of heroine readers root for spirited, untamed, and unwilling to bow to the rigid rules of her world. Her chemistry with Lathen de Clare, the brooding Duke of Windemere, is electric. Every glance and whispered word feels charged with forbidden intensity.
Brígh’s prose is lush and cinematic, pulling you into candlelit corridors, moonlit gardens, and the dangerous allure of secrets. This isn’t just a dark romance it’s a study in longing, restraint, and surrender. Awaken at Night sets a high bar for the series, promising even deeper shadows and greater passion ahead.
Lady Emerson Haven is the kind of heroine readers root for spirited, untamed, and unwilling to bow to the rigid rules of her world. Her chemistry with Lathen de Clare, the brooding Duke of Windemere, is electric. Every glance and whispered word feels charged with forbidden intensity.
Brígh’s prose is lush and cinematic, pulling you into candlelit corridors, moonlit gardens, and the dangerous allure of secrets. This isn’t just a dark romance it’s a study in longing, restraint, and surrender. Awaken at Night sets a high bar for the series, promising even deeper shadows and greater passion ahead.
October 8, 2025
Lady Emerson Haven lives in Regency London. She is a spirited heiress and was raised wild and free away from the ton's stifling expectations. But, after a family tragedy leaves her alone in the world she suddenly finds herself placed under the guardianship of Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere. Lathen de Clare finds himself tasked with molding Emerson for London's glittering Season.
Lathen himself harbors dark secrets in this hidden world of forbidden passions and unrestrained desires, and Emerson's firey defiance sparks a dangerous attraction in Lathen, drawing her into Lathen's seductive and perilous orbit.
As passions ignite between Emerson and Lathen amidst opulent balls, whispered intrigues, and candlelit encounters, their forbidden connection continues to deepen, blurring the lines between protector and predator. Will Emerson surrender to the dark allure that binds her to Lathen? Or defy the man who holds her heart and fate?
Awaken at Night is a slow-burn, darkish historical romance blending the lush nostalgia of classic romance with modern intensity. Perfect for fans of dark Regency romance and forbidden love, this steamy historical tale weaves passion, power, and peril.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Awaken at Night is the 1st book in the At Night Series by Harlow Brigh. I do have to admit that when I first started reading this book it honestly reminded me of Bridgerton with it being set in historical England, the ton, and all the likes. And as a fan of Bridgerton (the books not the show) I'm not surprised that I enjoyed this book.
Harlow did such a great job in not only creating her characters for this book, and I'm not only talking about the main characters but also the secondary characters, but the character development and arcs were also really well done. Then you add in the tension, angst and the spice, it sets up for a great series.
The plot, subplot, and the storyline were really well put together and Harlow did a great job with the pacing. She ensured that she mixed with it just enough to keep the tension on and keep you enthralled and drawn in wanting to keep reading and wanting to know what happened next and how the book was going to end. And while this wasn't a purely a dark romance there was just enough darkness added into it to make it addictive.
I am addicted to anything set in England/Europe so this being set in Victoria London was just a great bonus and then we get a forbidden society, intrigue, twists and turns, it all keeps us guessing the entire book.
One of the things that I love about this book is that it reunited childhood friends Emerson and Lathen who now seem to act more like enemies. But, we see them bond over their love of the arts and their joy of fight as kids, well that is still as present as ever.
We can see that they can feel an attraction for each other even though neither Emerson or Lathen want to admit to it. It was rather frustrating to watch their push and pull and it leaves you wishing they would just give in to be lovers already.
We are left waiting for either one of them or both of them to see the truth of their hearts.
And of course we see some interference from those who are jealous of both Emerson and Lathen. And we listen to Emerson's inner monologue as she listens to all the supposed rumours that are going around.
Can Lathen and Emerson ever find a HEA?
And then we have that ending... what a huge cliffhanger. I wasn't expecting that ending. Now I just have to get my hands on the next book.
You NEED to put this book one your TBR like yesterday.
Lathen himself harbors dark secrets in this hidden world of forbidden passions and unrestrained desires, and Emerson's firey defiance sparks a dangerous attraction in Lathen, drawing her into Lathen's seductive and perilous orbit.
As passions ignite between Emerson and Lathen amidst opulent balls, whispered intrigues, and candlelit encounters, their forbidden connection continues to deepen, blurring the lines between protector and predator. Will Emerson surrender to the dark allure that binds her to Lathen? Or defy the man who holds her heart and fate?
Awaken at Night is a slow-burn, darkish historical romance blending the lush nostalgia of classic romance with modern intensity. Perfect for fans of dark Regency romance and forbidden love, this steamy historical tale weaves passion, power, and peril.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Awaken at Night is the 1st book in the At Night Series by Harlow Brigh. I do have to admit that when I first started reading this book it honestly reminded me of Bridgerton with it being set in historical England, the ton, and all the likes. And as a fan of Bridgerton (the books not the show) I'm not surprised that I enjoyed this book.
Harlow did such a great job in not only creating her characters for this book, and I'm not only talking about the main characters but also the secondary characters, but the character development and arcs were also really well done. Then you add in the tension, angst and the spice, it sets up for a great series.
The plot, subplot, and the storyline were really well put together and Harlow did a great job with the pacing. She ensured that she mixed with it just enough to keep the tension on and keep you enthralled and drawn in wanting to keep reading and wanting to know what happened next and how the book was going to end. And while this wasn't a purely a dark romance there was just enough darkness added into it to make it addictive.
I am addicted to anything set in England/Europe so this being set in Victoria London was just a great bonus and then we get a forbidden society, intrigue, twists and turns, it all keeps us guessing the entire book.
One of the things that I love about this book is that it reunited childhood friends Emerson and Lathen who now seem to act more like enemies. But, we see them bond over their love of the arts and their joy of fight as kids, well that is still as present as ever.
We can see that they can feel an attraction for each other even though neither Emerson or Lathen want to admit to it. It was rather frustrating to watch their push and pull and it leaves you wishing they would just give in to be lovers already.
We are left waiting for either one of them or both of them to see the truth of their hearts.
And of course we see some interference from those who are jealous of both Emerson and Lathen. And we listen to Emerson's inner monologue as she listens to all the supposed rumours that are going around.
Can Lathen and Emerson ever find a HEA?
And then we have that ending... what a huge cliffhanger. I wasn't expecting that ending. Now I just have to get my hands on the next book.
You NEED to put this book one your TBR like yesterday.
December 29, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this dark and intense forbidden love, guardian-ward, close proximity historical romance written by a new to me author. There was plenty of enemies to lovers tension, intrigue, secrets and delicious spice with power exchange scenes , but also heartfelt emotions and heartwarming sweetness. I was captivated from the first page to the last.
Emerson and Lathen, who at first glance appear to be complete opposites, really appealed to me. She is lively, curious and yet naive, while he is controlled, mysterious and possessive. The magnetic chemistry between the two was off the charts and I thoroughly enjoyed their sizzling interactions. The tension between them was palpable throughout the book.
I also liked the host of lovable supporting characters and their own blossoming romances.
Unfortunately, there is an open ending, but I will definitely read the sequel to see how the story of Emerson and Lathen develops.
Lady Emerson Haven grew up wild and free as a tomboy, her only confidant being her beloved and indulgent older brother Kit. When he dies mysteriously, Emerson becomes the ward of his best friend, Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere, who has her educated as a lady. Emerson is now a wealthy heiress and a countess in her own right, and when she travels to London for her first season, she is determined to find a suitable husband who will accept her freedom and free her from the clutches of her strict guardian, whom she cannot stand and whom she believes was involved in her brother's death.
Lathen is controlled and has many dark secrets and desires. He is determined to find Emerson the perfect man and protect her from his darkness, even though he secretly feels drawn to her. But his secrets and lifestyle are not for the vivacious, innocent Emerson.
Passionate arguments soon turn into something more, and Emerson manages to uncover his secrets layer by layer. She experiences forbidden passion she never thought possible, but can she fully commit to it and to Lathen?
If you like thrilling and sizzling reads (with a sequel) that will keep you hooked from start to finish, this book is for you!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
Emerson and Lathen, who at first glance appear to be complete opposites, really appealed to me. She is lively, curious and yet naive, while he is controlled, mysterious and possessive. The magnetic chemistry between the two was off the charts and I thoroughly enjoyed their sizzling interactions. The tension between them was palpable throughout the book.
I also liked the host of lovable supporting characters and their own blossoming romances.
Unfortunately, there is an open ending, but I will definitely read the sequel to see how the story of Emerson and Lathen develops.
Lady Emerson Haven grew up wild and free as a tomboy, her only confidant being her beloved and indulgent older brother Kit. When he dies mysteriously, Emerson becomes the ward of his best friend, Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere, who has her educated as a lady. Emerson is now a wealthy heiress and a countess in her own right, and when she travels to London for her first season, she is determined to find a suitable husband who will accept her freedom and free her from the clutches of her strict guardian, whom she cannot stand and whom she believes was involved in her brother's death.
Lathen is controlled and has many dark secrets and desires. He is determined to find Emerson the perfect man and protect her from his darkness, even though he secretly feels drawn to her. But his secrets and lifestyle are not for the vivacious, innocent Emerson.
Passionate arguments soon turn into something more, and Emerson manages to uncover his secrets layer by layer. She experiences forbidden passion she never thought possible, but can she fully commit to it and to Lathen?
If you like thrilling and sizzling reads (with a sequel) that will keep you hooked from start to finish, this book is for you!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
December 14, 2025
Going in with no expectations, I was surprised to find that this book immediately gave me Bridgerton vibes-with its setting in historical England, the ton, and all the social expectations that come with it. And as a Bridgerton fan, I'm not surprised that I enjoyed this book. After all, who wouldn't want to be swept away by a Duke or Lord?
Harlow did an excellent job in building her story from the ground up. The main characters are compelling, but it’s the secondary characters that take it to the next level—they feel intentional, layered, and fully alive. The character growth is well executed, and when you mix in the tension, angst, and just the right touch of spice, it creates an incredibly addictive reading experience. I devoured the book!
The story never feels rushed or sluggish. It flows beautifully. Harlow knows exactly when to heighten the tension and when to let the story breathe, keeping you hooked from start to finish. With just the right amount of darkness sprinkled in.
One of the things I loved most about this book is the reunion of Emerson and Lathen, who now act more like enemies than anything else. The attraction between them is undeniable, even if neither wants to admit it.
Their constant push and pull is both delicious and frustrating, leaving you wishing they would just give in already. As readers, we’re left waiting for one—or both—of them to finally acknowledge the truth of their hearts. Add in the secrecy and the tension only continues to build.
And then… that ending.
A massive cliffhanger. Completely unexpected.
Did it piss me off? Absolutely.
Do I immediately need the next book? Without question.
Bottom line: you NEED to add Awaken at Night to your TBR—like yesterday.
Trust me, you won’t regret it.
🖤📖✨
Harlow did an excellent job in building her story from the ground up. The main characters are compelling, but it’s the secondary characters that take it to the next level—they feel intentional, layered, and fully alive. The character growth is well executed, and when you mix in the tension, angst, and just the right touch of spice, it creates an incredibly addictive reading experience. I devoured the book!
The story never feels rushed or sluggish. It flows beautifully. Harlow knows exactly when to heighten the tension and when to let the story breathe, keeping you hooked from start to finish. With just the right amount of darkness sprinkled in.
One of the things I loved most about this book is the reunion of Emerson and Lathen, who now act more like enemies than anything else. The attraction between them is undeniable, even if neither wants to admit it.
Their constant push and pull is both delicious and frustrating, leaving you wishing they would just give in already. As readers, we’re left waiting for one—or both—of them to finally acknowledge the truth of their hearts. Add in the secrecy and the tension only continues to build.
And then… that ending.
A massive cliffhanger. Completely unexpected.
Did it piss me off? Absolutely.
Do I immediately need the next book? Without question.
Bottom line: you NEED to add Awaken at Night to your TBR—like yesterday.
Trust me, you won’t regret it.
🖤📖✨
January 10, 2026
Two warnings: 1) lots of potential triggers so please read the trigger warnings and 2) this is a trilogy so book one and two do not finish as Happily Ever Afters. This is the only reason why I am giving it 4.5 Stars because I had no warning that this was not a Happily Ever After story.
With that out of the way, book one is an absolute page turner! It pulled me in so quickly and I could not put it down.
The main characters, Lathan and Emerson are so vivid and strong. Lathen de Clare, Duke of Windemere and Lady Emerson Haven meet when Emerson is very young and Lathan makes a lasting impression. He is Emerson’s brother’s (Kit) best friend and he comes to visit, let’s just say it did not go well.
After Emerson’s brother dies by mysterious circumstances, and soon after her father passes away and so she becomes Lathan’s ward and it becomes a forbidden romance from there.
There is the forbiddeness of their relationship, the mysterious circumstances of Kit’s death, the spiiicy darkish (emphasis on the ish) romance between Lathan and Emerson, both their stubborn streaks, and the wonderful side characters that make this story an absolute delight to get swallowed up into!!
This is a new-to-me author and I will be reading the rest of the trilogy, that’s for sure but I will also read more from of her books!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With that out of the way, book one is an absolute page turner! It pulled me in so quickly and I could not put it down.
The main characters, Lathan and Emerson are so vivid and strong. Lathen de Clare, Duke of Windemere and Lady Emerson Haven meet when Emerson is very young and Lathan makes a lasting impression. He is Emerson’s brother’s (Kit) best friend and he comes to visit, let’s just say it did not go well.
After Emerson’s brother dies by mysterious circumstances, and soon after her father passes away and so she becomes Lathan’s ward and it becomes a forbidden romance from there.
There is the forbiddeness of their relationship, the mysterious circumstances of Kit’s death, the spiiicy darkish (emphasis on the ish) romance between Lathan and Emerson, both their stubborn streaks, and the wonderful side characters that make this story an absolute delight to get swallowed up into!!
This is a new-to-me author and I will be reading the rest of the trilogy, that’s for sure but I will also read more from of her books!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2025
This series is a dark, gothic Regency romance that masterfully weaves together mystery, drama, and a brooding, complex hero. The story delves into themes far deeper than just its explicit, well-written intimate scenes. The hero, burdened by a troubled past and the weight of inheriting more than just a dukedom at a young age, believes he can only find arousal through inflicting pain. Yet, beneath his darkness lies a fierce need to protect those he loves—especially Emerson, who becomes his ward after the tragic loss of her brother (the Duke’s best friend) and then her father.
Normally, I avoid series that can’t be read as standalones, but the intriguing description drew me in. I was surprised to discover a cliffhanger ending, as the story doesn’t conclude in the first book. Despite this, I found myself thoroughly engrossed and enjoyed the journey, even if there were moments I wish had been handled differently. Reading the second book brought everything into perspective and made the experience even more rewarding.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s dark, atmospheric, and emotionally layered—with characters who linger in your mind—this series is well worth your time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Normally, I avoid series that can’t be read as standalones, but the intriguing description drew me in. I was surprised to discover a cliffhanger ending, as the story doesn’t conclude in the first book. Despite this, I found myself thoroughly engrossed and enjoyed the journey, even if there were moments I wish had been handled differently. Reading the second book brought everything into perspective and made the experience even more rewarding.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s dark, atmospheric, and emotionally layered—with characters who linger in your mind—this series is well worth your time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2025
Awaken at Night is a dark, gripping dive into the complexities of love, desire, and the shadows that often accompany them. Harlow Brigh has a way of creating tension that’s both emotional and sensual, pulling the reader into a world where every choice carries weight and every secret threatens to surface.
The characters are compelling and deeply flawed, which makes their interactions raw and realistic. I especially appreciated how Brigh explored the emotional depth behind the characters’ desires, rather than relying solely on the allure of danger or romance. The pacing keeps you on edge, and the twists are delivered in just the right moments to keep the story engaging without feeling forced.
While some moments may be intense for sensitive readers, it’s this very intensity that makes the story memorable. Overall, Awaken at Night is a provocative and thought-provoking read that stays with you long after the final page. I’m looking forward to seeing where Harlow Brigh takes us next.
I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.
The characters are compelling and deeply flawed, which makes their interactions raw and realistic. I especially appreciated how Brigh explored the emotional depth behind the characters’ desires, rather than relying solely on the allure of danger or romance. The pacing keeps you on edge, and the twists are delivered in just the right moments to keep the story engaging without feeling forced.
While some moments may be intense for sensitive readers, it’s this very intensity that makes the story memorable. Overall, Awaken at Night is a provocative and thought-provoking read that stays with you long after the final page. I’m looking forward to seeing where Harlow Brigh takes us next.
I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.
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December 30, 2025The author describes this historical romance as “darkish,” but while some themes may feel risqué, it didn’t strike me as overly dark. That said, I recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in.
This was a true page-turner for me! The story centers on Emerson Haven, a spirited young woman preparing to enter English society, and Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere. Their chemistry is magnetic, and the tension between them is palpable throughout the book. What unfolds is a gripping journey of discovery, forbidden passion, and emotional vulnerability.
This is the first book in a trilogy about Emerson and Lathen, and I’m eager to see where their story goes next.
If you enjoy spicy historical romances with high-stakes tension, layered secrets, and unforgettable chemistry, this book is for you!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a true page-turner for me! The story centers on Emerson Haven, a spirited young woman preparing to enter English society, and Lathen de Clare, the enigmatic Duke of Windemere. Their chemistry is magnetic, and the tension between them is palpable throughout the book. What unfolds is a gripping journey of discovery, forbidden passion, and emotional vulnerability.
This is the first book in a trilogy about Emerson and Lathen, and I’m eager to see where their story goes next.
If you enjoy spicy historical romances with high-stakes tension, layered secrets, and unforgettable chemistry, this book is for you!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2025
Before I downloaded this book, I read that the author describes her work as “darkish”. That’s an appropriate word… if darkish is a word. I have to confess that the book was not my “cup of tea”, but if darkish sexual fantasy is yours, this is a well written, engaging novel with expertly drawn characters and a compelling story line. Thus, my rating. I did not find the book offensive or distasteful, quite the contrary. I was invested in the main characters finding their happy ending. I’m just not into darkish. I was , however, entertained by the story and went on to read book two as this book is pretty much a cliffhanger. If this author has other books not so darkish, I will gladly read them with the anticipation of a finding a well penned tale. I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
4/5 ⭐️ Darkish-Slow-burnish
🌶🌶
I was not prepared for the chemistry between the MC's, Lathen and Emerson. It is almost hard for me to consider this a slow- burn due to how well written the almost spice in the beginning is and the connection they have. The way Emerson's yearnings are described made pacing almost nonexistent. Meaning, I could not read fast enough to get to their next physical encounter. All the intimacy was written tastefully and believable. Lathen's character remains consistent throughout the story which adds to the shock value of his motivations.
Harlow Brigh does an amazing job creating a believable story combining 18th/19th century England with "darkish" historical romance elements. I am reading the next book immediately.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🌶🌶
I was not prepared for the chemistry between the MC's, Lathen and Emerson. It is almost hard for me to consider this a slow- burn due to how well written the almost spice in the beginning is and the connection they have. The way Emerson's yearnings are described made pacing almost nonexistent. Meaning, I could not read fast enough to get to their next physical encounter. All the intimacy was written tastefully and believable. Lathen's character remains consistent throughout the story which adds to the shock value of his motivations.
Harlow Brigh does an amazing job creating a believable story combining 18th/19th century England with "darkish" historical romance elements. I am reading the next book immediately.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 21, 2025
Childhood friends now seem to act like enemies as adults. Emerson and Lathen loved the art and joy of fighting as kids and now it carries through as adults. Each has an attraction to the other , but neither will acknowledge it. This was a work in frustration watching the push and pull between the two would be lovers. Can either see their true hearts??? Some interferences from jealous vipers. Emerson's mind runs wild with supposed rumors. Can there be an hea? Huge cliffhanger!!! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
September 9, 2025
Such a great book!
Oh my goodness! This book was so good that I read it in two days! The spice level was so spicy, just enough darkness to it but still a sweet love story. Such a great storyline and great characters. Love that it’s in Victorian London, showing an unknown , forbidden society, so intriguing, different twists , it kept me guessing the whole time. Can’t wait to read the next book.
Oh my goodness! This book was so good that I read it in two days! The spice level was so spicy, just enough darkness to it but still a sweet love story. Such a great storyline and great characters. Love that it’s in Victorian London, showing an unknown , forbidden society, so intriguing, different twists , it kept me guessing the whole time. Can’t wait to read the next book.
September 21, 2025
Reminded me of Bridgerton with the historical England, the ton, and everything. And since I enjoyed that too I am not surprised at all that I very much enjoyed this one. I enjoyed the spice and the tension (not just between main characters lol). And then to introduce THAT at the end?! Wasn't expecting that twist to the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2025
Lathen and Emerson
This book took me on a crazy ride. It was full of twists, turns, and some serious heat. And that ending? Forget about it. I need the next installment, stat! The editing could've been better, which is why only 4 stars, but it was definitely a very interesting read.
This book took me on a crazy ride. It was full of twists, turns, and some serious heat. And that ending? Forget about it. I need the next installment, stat! The editing could've been better, which is why only 4 stars, but it was definitely a very interesting read.
January 10, 2026
Shocking 😲
This book is very well read. It's truly a merging between Bridgerton and 50 shades of gray. There was some mystery to unravel, tons of emotions to wade through, and a whole lot of shocking enlightenments.
It is not recommended for all ages, but it is highly recommended for mature audiences.
This book is very well read. It's truly a merging between Bridgerton and 50 shades of gray. There was some mystery to unravel, tons of emotions to wade through, and a whole lot of shocking enlightenments.
It is not recommended for all ages, but it is highly recommended for mature audiences.
September 20, 2025
A wonderful historical novel, characters who have many ups and downs, with some very titillating scenes! I am about to start book 2, so this book is obviously recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
December 23, 2025
A good mix of spice and plot. One of the better book series I've read lately.
The plot is darkish - that is there are dark elements but it isn't heavy the whole way through. The scenes are fun. I enjoyed it and read through the rest of the series wanting all the side stories.
The plot is darkish - that is there are dark elements but it isn't heavy the whole way through. The scenes are fun. I enjoyed it and read through the rest of the series wanting all the side stories.
September 28, 2025
I really liked it. It was pretty steamy. I was definitely surprised with the end, which is not always a given. I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
October 20, 2025
Wow
This is a page turner.. new author for me and wow the events in the book were unexpected for sure. I can't wait to start reading book # 2
This is a page turner.. new author for me and wow the events in the book were unexpected for sure. I can't wait to start reading book # 2
December 4, 2025
A darkish, regency romance with the right amount of mystery, drama, and intrigue. I didn’t want to put it down!
December 15, 2025
I loved this book so much that I devoured every page in just 24 hours. I couldn’t put it down! Now onto book 2 Pursued at night!! 💋🔥🌶️❤️🖤
December 18, 2025
How dare this book devastate me with a cliffhanger like that! I will never recover! *quickly and gleefully downloads the second book*
November 6, 2025
A bit of a slow start but worth sticking it through, love Emmerson for 1809 shes a very headstrong FMC. Really good spice and tension throughout, abit of a cliff hanger looking forward to book 2!
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