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The Lyon Who Desired Me: The Lyon's Den Connected World
One kiss, one scandal, one dangerously convenient marriage.
From the USA Today bestselling author of Holt Medallion Finalist The Lyon Who Loved Me comes the younger Beckett brother’s tale of redemption and reckless desire.
Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a talent for blowing things up—gardens, greenhouses, and her reputation. When the duke’s brilliant, reckless daughter demands a match, she doesn’t ask for a titled suitor. She asks for Dominic Beckett.
Dom is no safe bet. With ruin in his past and restraint in his present, the last thing he wants is temptation like Louisa. But when one incendiary kiss sparks scandal, he has no choice but to wed her.
Marriage was supposed to be practical. Instead, it’s the most dangerous gamble of falling in love.
Tropes you'll Marriage of convenience / forced marriageReformed rake with a dangerous pastBrilliant, unconventional heroine (STEM/chemist)Matchmaker meddling (The Lyon’s Den)Childhood encounter / fate reunionPublic scandal leading to forced marriageForbidden desire → combustible chemistryProtective hero who falls FIRST for a reckless heroine
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
From the USA Today bestselling author of Holt Medallion Finalist The Lyon Who Loved Me comes the younger Beckett brother’s tale of redemption and reckless desire.
Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a talent for blowing things up—gardens, greenhouses, and her reputation. When the duke’s brilliant, reckless daughter demands a match, she doesn’t ask for a titled suitor. She asks for Dominic Beckett.
Dom is no safe bet. With ruin in his past and restraint in his present, the last thing he wants is temptation like Louisa. But when one incendiary kiss sparks scandal, he has no choice but to wed her.
Marriage was supposed to be practical. Instead, it’s the most dangerous gamble of falling in love.
Tropes you'll Marriage of convenience / forced marriageReformed rake with a dangerous pastBrilliant, unconventional heroine (STEM/chemist)Matchmaker meddling (The Lyon’s Den)Childhood encounter / fate reunionPublic scandal leading to forced marriageForbidden desire → combustible chemistryProtective hero who falls FIRST for a reckless heroine
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
106 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2025
53 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Sumner
60 books1,642 followers"Witty dialogue and steamy sensuality.”
—Publisher’s Weekly
The USA Today bestselling author's storytelling career began when she picked up a historical romance on a college beach trip, and she fondly blames LaVyrle Spencer for her obsession with the genre. She’s a recipient of the National Reader’s Choice, HOLT Medallion, Golden Leaf and MAGGIE among others. She lived in New York, Paris and Taipei before returning to NYC.
When not writing sizzling love stories about feisty heroines and their temperamental-but-entirely-lovable heroes, Tracy enjoys reading, snowboarding, college football (Go Tigers!), yoga, and travel. She loves to hear from romance readers!
Find me everywhere on social here!
https://linktr.ee/tracysumner
—Publisher’s Weekly
The USA Today bestselling author's storytelling career began when she picked up a historical romance on a college beach trip, and she fondly blames LaVyrle Spencer for her obsession with the genre. She’s a recipient of the National Reader’s Choice, HOLT Medallion, Golden Leaf and MAGGIE among others. She lived in New York, Paris and Taipei before returning to NYC.
When not writing sizzling love stories about feisty heroines and their temperamental-but-entirely-lovable heroes, Tracy enjoys reading, snowboarding, college football (Go Tigers!), yoga, and travel. She loves to hear from romance readers!
Find me everywhere on social here!
https://linktr.ee/tracysumner
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
December 7, 2025
Tracy Sumner is underutilizing her undeniable talent by writing a bunch of steamy novellas which are short on characterization and plot, but chock full of gorgeous writing and potential for more than sexual antics.
Still, there was enough here to enjoy. Louisa, daughter of a duke, has a passion for chemistry and a penchant for blowing things up, and her family wants rid of her and her explosions.
Her pluck was the reason she had no suitors. The few who’d come calling had left in a daze, one or two with charred clothing. Men preferred women with gentler interests, like embroidery and watercolors, not those who sought to detonate a baron’s shrubbery with a single, well-timed charge.
Call the matchmaker.
Dominic, second son, is dyslexic, which made him an abject failure in the eyes of his father, but his ability with numbers lured him into gambling, with ultimately disastrous results. He saddled the family coffers with a great deal of debt, reformed, and is now consumed with guilt and a desire to atone. He’s not interested in marriage, but the matchmaker is his great-aunt so he agrees to a meeting.
Sparks fly, and there’s not a test tube in sight.
This is not as satisfying as it could have been with a little more time and development, but it was fun, sexy, and hard to put down.
Still, there was enough here to enjoy. Louisa, daughter of a duke, has a passion for chemistry and a penchant for blowing things up, and her family wants rid of her and her explosions.
Her pluck was the reason she had no suitors. The few who’d come calling had left in a daze, one or two with charred clothing. Men preferred women with gentler interests, like embroidery and watercolors, not those who sought to detonate a baron’s shrubbery with a single, well-timed charge.
Call the matchmaker.
Dominic, second son, is dyslexic, which made him an abject failure in the eyes of his father, but his ability with numbers lured him into gambling, with ultimately disastrous results. He saddled the family coffers with a great deal of debt, reformed, and is now consumed with guilt and a desire to atone. He’s not interested in marriage, but the matchmaker is his great-aunt so he agrees to a meeting.
Sparks fly, and there’s not a test tube in sight.
This is not as satisfying as it could have been with a little more time and development, but it was fun, sexy, and hard to put down.
December 15, 2025
If you’re looking for an additional shot of steam with your morning latte, this novella won’t disappoint. Fairly interesting MC characterizations cited in the blurb fall to the wayside in their hasty pursuit of lust.
November 19, 2025
Chemistry in action!
There’s been a flurry of tales lately about scientifically or mathematical bent young ladies struggling in society to either make a good marriage, not wanting to be married, or married for convenience, all the while hiding their intellectual abilities under a bushel as it were.
Not so Lady Louisa Radcliffe. She’s known for her explosions and incendiary happenings.
Louisa has a large dowry and is the daughter of a duke. However she decides to take charge when it looks like a dullard, a senseless earl, is going to offer for her.
Louisa wants more. She seeks help from the mysterious Mrs. Dove-Lyon.
Louisa’s interests have landed on the volatile rake and gambler Dominic Beckett, who just happens, in a convoluted roundabout way, to be related somehow to Mrs. Dove-Lyons.
Louisa’s decision is based on an encounter with Dominic in a bookshop when they were both children.
A satisfying ‘marriage of convenience’ love story with a twist.
The fireworks are not only of the chemical variety, the chemistry between Lou and Dom are equally as fiery and palpable.
A delightfully enjoyable read that doesn’t overreach. Tracy Sumner rocks!
A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
There’s been a flurry of tales lately about scientifically or mathematical bent young ladies struggling in society to either make a good marriage, not wanting to be married, or married for convenience, all the while hiding their intellectual abilities under a bushel as it were.
Not so Lady Louisa Radcliffe. She’s known for her explosions and incendiary happenings.
Louisa has a large dowry and is the daughter of a duke. However she decides to take charge when it looks like a dullard, a senseless earl, is going to offer for her.
Louisa wants more. She seeks help from the mysterious Mrs. Dove-Lyon.
Louisa’s interests have landed on the volatile rake and gambler Dominic Beckett, who just happens, in a convoluted roundabout way, to be related somehow to Mrs. Dove-Lyons.
Louisa’s decision is based on an encounter with Dominic in a bookshop when they were both children.
A satisfying ‘marriage of convenience’ love story with a twist.
The fireworks are not only of the chemical variety, the chemistry between Lou and Dom are equally as fiery and palpable.
A delightfully enjoyable read that doesn’t overreach. Tracy Sumner rocks!
A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
December 13, 2025
I absolutely loved this novella.
It didn't feel rushed. I felt their relationship developed gradually and I was so sold on their attraction, the get-to-know-you period and eventually their love.
I loved that he wasn't very experienced and didn't boast about the gifts that used to work on his previous paramours like his brother did. 🙄
I loved that he was her dream boy and she just knew that he was the one she wanted despite the social scandals associated with him.
The way this author writes is so poetic!
Her gaze lifted, glazed with something far more potent than bookish reverence. She hardly knew what she was doing when it came to seduction, yet God help him, he knew. As they stared, the air thickened, charged with an emotion that felt dangerously like promise, and for a fleeting instant, Dom wondered if the room itself held its breath.
______________________________
He knew she was going to be trouble.
Possibly the kind that would break his heart. His chest gave a dull ache, a fearful ache that he tried to rub away.
______________________________
She was important to him, beyond his fascination and rampant yearning. Happiness lay just outside his reach when he was with her, and he believed he was close to grasping it for the first time. And, bloody hell, did he want to make her happy.
You see, he wasn't afraid to love her, he was simply afraid to lose her.
Around the end though, when her lab accident happened, I did not like her reaction. I did not appreciate that her first thought was to leave him! And for what? Because he was worried about her? Because he freaked out when he saw smoke coming out of the lab and blood on her cheek? Because he told her she couldn't practice anymore for the day?
Sorry he demanded it! Well, yes he shouldn't have demanded it but he was scared to death to lose her. Sue the guy!
He wasn't in the wrong though. What if a shard hit her eyes instead! What if she was pregnant!
Her reaction was a bit childish and immature and for that I deducated a star 🌟.
It didn't feel rushed. I felt their relationship developed gradually and I was so sold on their attraction, the get-to-know-you period and eventually their love.
I loved that he wasn't very experienced and didn't boast about the gifts that used to work on his previous paramours like his brother did. 🙄
I loved that he was her dream boy and she just knew that he was the one she wanted despite the social scandals associated with him.
The way this author writes is so poetic!
Her gaze lifted, glazed with something far more potent than bookish reverence. She hardly knew what she was doing when it came to seduction, yet God help him, he knew. As they stared, the air thickened, charged with an emotion that felt dangerously like promise, and for a fleeting instant, Dom wondered if the room itself held its breath.
______________________________
He knew she was going to be trouble.
Possibly the kind that would break his heart. His chest gave a dull ache, a fearful ache that he tried to rub away.
______________________________
She was important to him, beyond his fascination and rampant yearning. Happiness lay just outside his reach when he was with her, and he believed he was close to grasping it for the first time. And, bloody hell, did he want to make her happy.
You see, he wasn't afraid to love her, he was simply afraid to lose her.
Around the end though, when her lab accident happened, I did not like her reaction. I did not appreciate that her first thought was to leave him! And for what? Because he was worried about her? Because he freaked out when he saw smoke coming out of the lab and blood on her cheek? Because he told her she couldn't practice anymore for the day?
Sorry he demanded it! Well, yes he shouldn't have demanded it but he was scared to death to lose her. Sue the guy!
He wasn't in the wrong though. What if a shard hit her eyes instead! What if she was pregnant!
Her reaction was a bit childish and immature and for that I deducated a star 🌟.
November 20, 2025
I am always amazed at how Tracy Sumner can write a novella that has fewer than 100 pages, while crafting a poignant love story that is filled with beautiful prose - so lovely, in fact, that my reading slows way down just to savor each word and every image she creates in her story. Her stories are filled with sensuality, steam and heart, and The Lyon Who Desired Me is no different on this count. It might be my favorite of her novellas to date. She has given her readers a tender love story between Lady Louisa Radcliffe, a feisty, pyrotechnic-loving, ginger-haired daughter of a duke, and Mr. Dominic Hawthorne Beckett, second son of a viscount and younger brother of Griffin Alistair Beckett, the current Viscount Kent, who found his own love match in The Lyon Who Loved Me, also a five-star read for me.
What makes these two so special to me? I love that Louisa has been carrying a torch for Dominic - who isn't the usual rakish hero - since she was fifteen when they met by chance at a bookstore. Her father had refused to buy her a book on science that she wanted, and Dominic, overhearing the refusal, bought the book for her and put it on his family's tab at Longman's. What Louisa remembers above all else is Dominic's kindness in the face of her embarrassment, and she sets her cap for him when her father decides it is time for her to marry ten years later. I also love that Louisa is intellectually curious and science-minded (even as she blows things up with her experiments), and she is tenacious and single-minded when it comes to getting what - or whom - she wants.
Dominic is perhaps my favorite hero among Tracy Sumner's bevy of historical romance heroes. What's to love about him - in addition to his kindness? I have an affinity for heroes who are unsure of themselves, and Dominic is quite the opposite of his formerly rakish older brother, Griff. He's quiet, almost shy, and not the reprobate and scoundrel he's been painted as in the society pages. He wants to do things the right way - after some catastrophic events in his past that affected the viscountcy and for which he has been trying to make reparations ever since. And he has a disability, of which he has been ashamed and for which he experienced verbal and physical abuse by his father - unbeknownst to Griff. He's a scarred hero of sorts (my favorite kind of hero), who is chosen and accepted for himself by Lou, who feels seen and accepted for herself by Dominic. They fit together so well, and it's lovely to see Dominic coming out of his self-imposed shell and the two of them building a loving, satisfying life together.
It's a gorgeous read, and Sumner has given readers a couple to root for - all, as I mentioned above, in fewer than 100 pages. It's a gem of a story, one that left me with a smile on my face and in my heart. Now, all we need is for Louisa to give Dominic a Christian Bainbridge timepiece as an anniversary gift, and all will be perfect!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
What makes these two so special to me? I love that Louisa has been carrying a torch for Dominic - who isn't the usual rakish hero - since she was fifteen when they met by chance at a bookstore. Her father had refused to buy her a book on science that she wanted, and Dominic, overhearing the refusal, bought the book for her and put it on his family's tab at Longman's. What Louisa remembers above all else is Dominic's kindness in the face of her embarrassment, and she sets her cap for him when her father decides it is time for her to marry ten years later. I also love that Louisa is intellectually curious and science-minded (even as she blows things up with her experiments), and she is tenacious and single-minded when it comes to getting what - or whom - she wants.
Dominic is perhaps my favorite hero among Tracy Sumner's bevy of historical romance heroes. What's to love about him - in addition to his kindness? I have an affinity for heroes who are unsure of themselves, and Dominic is quite the opposite of his formerly rakish older brother, Griff. He's quiet, almost shy, and not the reprobate and scoundrel he's been painted as in the society pages. He wants to do things the right way - after some catastrophic events in his past that affected the viscountcy and for which he has been trying to make reparations ever since. And he has a disability, of which he has been ashamed and for which he experienced verbal and physical abuse by his father - unbeknownst to Griff. He's a scarred hero of sorts (my favorite kind of hero), who is chosen and accepted for himself by Lou, who feels seen and accepted for herself by Dominic. They fit together so well, and it's lovely to see Dominic coming out of his self-imposed shell and the two of them building a loving, satisfying life together.
It's a gorgeous read, and Sumner has given readers a couple to root for - all, as I mentioned above, in fewer than 100 pages. It's a gem of a story, one that left me with a smile on my face and in my heart. Now, all we need is for Louisa to give Dominic a Christian Bainbridge timepiece as an anniversary gift, and all will be perfect!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
November 15, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is part of the Lyon's Den world, and is about the younger brother of the MMC of The Lyon Who Loved Me (I think - I have not read that one - there are something like 100 stories in the Lyon's Den world!!!!!).
This was a story with a great characters - the STEM forward bluestocking FMC with a love of chemistry and pyrotechnics who happens to be the daughter of a duke. She is obviously misunderstood by Society and because of her interests has a bit of a tainted reputation. Mrs. Dove-Lyons has been engaged to find a mate for her, but Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a rather firm idea of what she wants, and is unafraid to vocalize it.
This involves a really rather lovely meet-cute when she was a 15 year old and a bookstore.
Luckily, the object of her marital desires is Dominic Beckett, a rather notorious younger brother of a viscount, and not what Society would consider an ideal match for a Duke's daughter - but luckily the nephew of Mrs. Dove-Lyons.
A marriage of convenience between what appears to be two misunderstood outsiders, who are opposites to each other, but with passions and emotions that they cannot keep hidden as the marriage becomes more than mere convenience Spicy, short, with an underlying sweetness as both characters were very appealing to me.
4 stars out of 5
This is part of the Lyon's Den world, and is about the younger brother of the MMC of The Lyon Who Loved Me (I think - I have not read that one - there are something like 100 stories in the Lyon's Den world!!!!!).
This was a story with a great characters - the STEM forward bluestocking FMC with a love of chemistry and pyrotechnics who happens to be the daughter of a duke. She is obviously misunderstood by Society and because of her interests has a bit of a tainted reputation. Mrs. Dove-Lyons has been engaged to find a mate for her, but Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a rather firm idea of what she wants, and is unafraid to vocalize it.
This involves a really rather lovely meet-cute when she was a 15 year old and a bookstore.
Luckily, the object of her marital desires is Dominic Beckett, a rather notorious younger brother of a viscount, and not what Society would consider an ideal match for a Duke's daughter - but luckily the nephew of Mrs. Dove-Lyons.
A marriage of convenience between what appears to be two misunderstood outsiders, who are opposites to each other, but with passions and emotions that they cannot keep hidden as the marriage becomes more than mere convenience Spicy, short, with an underlying sweetness as both characters were very appealing to me.
4 stars out of 5
November 24, 2025
I have said it before and I stand by it, reading a Tracy Sumner story will forever feel like coming home. My heart lies within every one of her stories. Louisa is exactly the heroine style I love. Determined, strong, a little unsure and wholly devoted to her man. Dominic, the ever noble, flawed hero you can’t help but love. He is like the wounded puppy you want to take home and snuggle until he feels loved. Together they fill each other’s flaws and create their own explosive chemistry. This story is tender, emotional and packed with chemistry (of the scientific and romantic forms). I loved the nod to stories past both recent and distant with appearances and mentions of characters I’ve loved before. I truly love that the found family notions of these past stories carry through draw us back. Sumner writes with a style that is both unique and heartwarming and I will never be able to recommend her enough.
November 30, 2025
This is a wonderfully engaging short story. Our heroine loves chemistry and has had her fair share of mishaps, leading her to seek assistance from matchmaker Bettie Lyon. In doing so, she’s reminded of Dominic — the man who made a lasting impression on her when she was younger.
After just one meeting, Dominic finds himself drawn to her. But can a reformed gambler truly trust in love? And can he believe that she may want him just as much as he wants her?
The writing places you right in the room with these two; there’s plenty of action, tension, and a generous dose of steam for such a short tale.
Well worth a read.
After just one meeting, Dominic finds himself drawn to her. But can a reformed gambler truly trust in love? And can he believe that she may want him just as much as he wants her?
The writing places you right in the room with these two; there’s plenty of action, tension, and a generous dose of steam for such a short tale.
Well worth a read.
October 27, 2025
I. LOVE. TRACY. SUMNER! She is a win every time, and this is no different. Just like the volatile nature of the chemicals that Lady “Lou” likes to experiment with, she and Dom were absolute fire! They called to one another and burned hotter and faster when combined.
Since this was a shorter book, the details of both their pasts were more compressed, but they were still compelling. I loved the quirkiness of both the MCs. Dom was labeled a “bad boy” for wasting the family funds as a second son, but he was actually a more reserved fellow who struggled with a learning disability. I loved his sheepishness and determination to be honorable despite the fire that Louisa lit for him.
Our Lady Lou was a genius with chemistry and loved to try and blow things up - not on exactly on purpose per se. She was bold and went for what she wanted, but she wasn’t unkind. She had lots of confidence, and that was fun.
This was a fun, uncomplicated story. Perfect for a quick but cold-water-needed read. 🔥💕
Since this was a shorter book, the details of both their pasts were more compressed, but they were still compelling. I loved the quirkiness of both the MCs. Dom was labeled a “bad boy” for wasting the family funds as a second son, but he was actually a more reserved fellow who struggled with a learning disability. I loved his sheepishness and determination to be honorable despite the fire that Louisa lit for him.
Our Lady Lou was a genius with chemistry and loved to try and blow things up - not on exactly on purpose per se. She was bold and went for what she wanted, but she wasn’t unkind. She had lots of confidence, and that was fun.
This was a fun, uncomplicated story. Perfect for a quick but cold-water-needed read. 🔥💕
December 3, 2025
This is my 16th book by Tracy Sumner. I started reading her in Jan, 2022.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a super quick read but she got good depth considering it just a few pages over 100. I liked Louisa and Dom. I liked the story concept. I am really enjoying these Lyon's Den books.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a super quick read but she got good depth considering it just a few pages over 100. I liked Louisa and Dom. I liked the story concept. I am really enjoying these Lyon's Den books.
December 9, 2025
4.5. R rated. Loved this! Well written and soooo romantic. 🥰
November 11, 2025
Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a talent for blowing things up—gardens, greenhouses, and her reputation. When the duke’s brilliant, reckless daughter demands a match, she doesn’t ask for a titled suitor. She asks for Dominic Beckett. Dom is no safe bet. With ruin in his past and restraint in his present, the last thing he wants is temptation like Louisa. But when one incendiary kiss sparks scandal, he has no choice but to wed her.
An absolute delight, I make no bones that I love the author’s books & this is no exception, yes it’s a novella but it still packs a punch. Wonderful characters, electric chemistry, fast paced, I devoured it in a sitting. I loved Dom & Louisa, she’d had a crush on him for years. I loved their journey to a HEA, they talked & opened up to each other. A brilliant addition to the connected world of the Lyons Den
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
An absolute delight, I make no bones that I love the author’s books & this is no exception, yes it’s a novella but it still packs a punch. Wonderful characters, electric chemistry, fast paced, I devoured it in a sitting. I loved Dom & Louisa, she’d had a crush on him for years. I loved their journey to a HEA, they talked & opened up to each other. A brilliant addition to the connected world of the Lyons Den
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
November 19, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Steamy and great tension! I loved that the fmc was a chemist and the mmc a reformed gambler.
Steamy and great tension! I loved that the fmc was a chemist and the mmc a reformed gambler.
November 10, 2025
Tracy Sumner has a way of involving you in a story so much that you forget to go to bed just to finish it. The steam sizzle factor of this book was off the charts! And this also with some masterfully built up slow burn present. The chemistry (pun intended?) between the MCs is amazing. Dom is a reformed rogue and trying to atone for his youth, spent as an unhappy and misunderstood young man. Louisa just wants a husband who can support her scientific endeavors (or at least not interfere). But she also wants the boy she was pining for forever. This is a bit of a second chance, a bit of “she saves him”, a bit of “he saves her” and is all in all a very sweet, heartwarming and delightfully spicy read! What a great addition to Lyon’s Den!
Thanks to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this most awesome advanced copy!
Thanks to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this most awesome advanced copy!
November 19, 2025
The Lyon Who Desired Me by Tracy Sumner is a short Lyon’s Den book in which two people are inexplicably drawn together. Lady Louisa Radcliffe remembered the day in the bookstore when she had been fifteen. A small kindness had stayed with her all these years. Now she gave his name to Mrs. Dove-Lyon so she could add him to the list of possibilities. Dominic Beckett, a second son; a risk. Louisa was a difficult case because of her vocation, building fireworks. Things sometimes were lit on fire. And she insisted on independence. People frowned on that. Dom had been addicted to gambling and had nearly lost his brother’s estate. He was now reformed and earning back the money he had lost.
Both interesting characters, the chemistry between them was undeniable. In fact, it permeated the entire story, being one of the most evocative books of the series. Both explosive personalities, it was not long before there was trouble. Short on plot, but long on love and desire, this was a thoroughly entertaining read.
I was invited to read The Lyon Who Desired Me by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #TracySumner #TheLyonWhoDesiredMe
Both interesting characters, the chemistry between them was undeniable. In fact, it permeated the entire story, being one of the most evocative books of the series. Both explosive personalities, it was not long before there was trouble. Short on plot, but long on love and desire, this was a thoroughly entertaining read.
I was invited to read The Lyon Who Desired Me by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #TracySumner #TheLyonWhoDesiredMe
November 17, 2025
Because her explosive experiments made traditional husband hunting rather impossible – especially since she wants love, and to continue her research – Louisa, a plucky duke’s daughter with a fascination for pyrotechnics, turned to Bessie Dove-Lyon to wheel in the boy who bought her a book long ago.
A viscount’s younger brother who’s rebellion against their father nearly sunk the title, repentance is Dominic’s new middle name. Self-conscious and wary, he’s a wiz with numbers, a lover of books – even though the letters never stop dancing – and unwilling to settle until he’s repaid his debt.
She hopes for a marriage of convenience turned true love match.
Believing himself unworthy, he only hopes to keep his burning desire in check.
And of course he can’t... not that she’s complaining... nothing like a little scandal to move things along 😉
A truly delectable novella; utterly charming, wonderfully frisky and chock-full of heart!
I have a ginormous soft spot for endearingly insecure underdogs, and this man delivers! The things he does for her... [swoony sigh] – and I love, love, LOVE that she’s not a wilting wallflower! She’s a proud nerd with a naughty streak, and unafraid to show it!
Plus, their new home comes with an adorably unmovable mongrel. I mean, that seals the deal, right?
So, if you’re looking for an exquisite quick read, this is it!
A viscount’s younger brother who’s rebellion against their father nearly sunk the title, repentance is Dominic’s new middle name. Self-conscious and wary, he’s a wiz with numbers, a lover of books – even though the letters never stop dancing – and unwilling to settle until he’s repaid his debt.
She hopes for a marriage of convenience turned true love match.
Believing himself unworthy, he only hopes to keep his burning desire in check.
And of course he can’t... not that she’s complaining... nothing like a little scandal to move things along 😉
A truly delectable novella; utterly charming, wonderfully frisky and chock-full of heart!
I have a ginormous soft spot for endearingly insecure underdogs, and this man delivers! The things he does for her... [swoony sigh] – and I love, love, LOVE that she’s not a wilting wallflower! She’s a proud nerd with a naughty streak, and unafraid to show it!
Plus, their new home comes with an adorably unmovable mongrel. I mean, that seals the deal, right?
So, if you’re looking for an exquisite quick read, this is it!
November 17, 2025
Lady Louisa has a fascination with explosives and quite good at making them, causing the list of gentleman who may be willing to marry her extremely small. She insists that her matchmaker add Dominic Beckett to the list as he once showed her a kindness, though in the eyes of society he is far from a good match. Dom is fascinated by Louisa from their first meeting and quickly agrees to the suit, but the reality of leaving with the amateur chemist may be more than his nerves can handle.
I love Tracy’s writing. The novella was romantic from start to finish. I kept highlighting passage after passage. I love books where they are both down bad for one another and don’t quite know how to express themselves. Louisa and Dom are a wonderful match. There was chemistry and beyond that it was clear that they truly loved one another. I somehow missed the previous book about Dom’s brother but will have track it down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love Tracy’s writing. The novella was romantic from start to finish. I kept highlighting passage after passage. I love books where they are both down bad for one another and don’t quite know how to express themselves. Louisa and Dom are a wonderful match. There was chemistry and beyond that it was clear that they truly loved one another. I somehow missed the previous book about Dom’s brother but will have track it down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2025
Read if you like: forced marriage, unconventional fmc (she’s a chemist), she falls first, dyslexia rep
This book had me swooning. This was short, achingly sweet, and I loved it so much.
Louisa is intelligent, blunt, witty, daring and cares little of what the ton thinks of her.
Dom has a scandalous reputation and has done a lot of things he regrets. He’s wrecked with guilt and now he wants to avoid love and recklessness to amend his past. But when he gets to know Louisa, all common sense goes out the window. Dom was her saviour when she was younger and now she gets to return the favour and be HIS saviour 🥹
I loved that he found her quirkiness fascinating and encouraged her to persue her passion. He didn’t want her to change at all and I loved that about him. “Darling Lou” AHHHHHH my heart thinking about them together 🥰🥰 and the way he defended her? Oh “my” indeed, they were perfect together!
Tracey knows how to write palpable chemistry, she left me blushing. Truly such a magical, passionate and easy story to read, I highly recommend.
Thank you Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC
This book had me swooning. This was short, achingly sweet, and I loved it so much.
Louisa is intelligent, blunt, witty, daring and cares little of what the ton thinks of her.
Dom has a scandalous reputation and has done a lot of things he regrets. He’s wrecked with guilt and now he wants to avoid love and recklessness to amend his past. But when he gets to know Louisa, all common sense goes out the window. Dom was her saviour when she was younger and now she gets to return the favour and be HIS saviour 🥹
I loved that he found her quirkiness fascinating and encouraged her to persue her passion. He didn’t want her to change at all and I loved that about him. “Darling Lou” AHHHHHH my heart thinking about them together 🥰🥰 and the way he defended her? Oh “my” indeed, they were perfect together!
Tracey knows how to write palpable chemistry, she left me blushing. Truly such a magical, passionate and easy story to read, I highly recommend.
Thank you Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC
December 29, 2025
Matchmaker Mrs. Dove-Lyon may broker the match, but it's the bride-to-be, Lady Louisa Radcliffe, who calls the shots on the man she wants. Dominic Beckett didn't realize how much he needed Louisa, until Bessie Dove-Lyon encouraged the match. Louisa may love to experiment with pyrotechnics, but it's the sparks that fly between her and Dominic that make her heart race. A short, but very passionate love story.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
November 9, 2025
Thank you Tracy for the advance copy of this book! I loved the sweetness between Louisa and Dom. The way they were open, and vulnerable with eachother was refreshing, and an absolute joy to read!
November 13, 2025
This was a cute quick book about Louise and Dominic. Louise is a lady who loves chemistry which I found really neat for a book set in 19th century London. Her love of science though has made her marriage prospects slim, but she set her eye on Dominic. They are well suited for one another, and I loved that Dominic opened up to Louise about his learning disability. It showed how safe he felt with her. They were so cute together, and Dominic buying a house with a laboratory out back for Louise was so sweet. I want to thank Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
No third act breakup
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
M/F
Historical Romance
No third act breakup
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
M/F
Historical Romance
November 19, 2025
I really loved this book the passion between Louise and Dominic was as hot as the experiments Louise carried out.
They were both damaged characters but needed each other to be whole.
Yet another success for Bessie Dove Lyon
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade for my arc copy
They were both damaged characters but needed each other to be whole.
Yet another success for Bessie Dove Lyon
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2025
A “calamity in silk,” Lady Louisa Ratcliffe has a reputation that precedes her as London’s prettiest disaster. Famous for a literal explosion at an elite party, she’s as avoided as she is adored. But beneath the chaos is a longing romantic. Ever since Dominic Beckett once bought her forbidden books as a girl, Louisa’s been half in love with him. So when asked to name her preferred husband, she shocks by naming Dom. What follows is a fierce, tender love story where both protect the other from a world too cruel for their softness.
Tracy Sumner does it again. She’s one of those authors I trust implicitly. When she writes passion, I feel it. The chemistry here crackles and the scenes of intimacy are as explosive as Louisa’s reputation. (You knew that pun was coming. Coming?! Oh, we’re doing this.) A certain desk scene? Permanently burned into my brain.
However, Sumner’s true magic lies beyond the heat. She crafts lovers who protect each other. Louisa and Dom advocate, defend, and heal each other in ways that feel deeply earned. I especially appreciated the portrayal of learning differences and how Louisa shields Dom from judgment just as he protects her from ridicule. Their mutual vulnerability is the novel’s strength, and it’s what will make readers fall hard.
The Lyon’s Den Connected World continues to charm me, and each installment adds new layers to the lore. Enormous thanks to NetGalley and Dragon’s Blade for the ARC, and to Tracy Sumner for yet another lush, moving romance that proves why she’s a must-read in the genre.
Tracy Sumner does it again. She’s one of those authors I trust implicitly. When she writes passion, I feel it. The chemistry here crackles and the scenes of intimacy are as explosive as Louisa’s reputation. (You knew that pun was coming. Coming?! Oh, we’re doing this.) A certain desk scene? Permanently burned into my brain.
However, Sumner’s true magic lies beyond the heat. She crafts lovers who protect each other. Louisa and Dom advocate, defend, and heal each other in ways that feel deeply earned. I especially appreciated the portrayal of learning differences and how Louisa shields Dom from judgment just as he protects her from ridicule. Their mutual vulnerability is the novel’s strength, and it’s what will make readers fall hard.
The Lyon’s Den Connected World continues to charm me, and each installment adds new layers to the lore. Enormous thanks to NetGalley and Dragon’s Blade for the ARC, and to Tracy Sumner for yet another lush, moving romance that proves why she’s a must-read in the genre.
November 8, 2025
"Louisa clenched her fingers in her skirt, so desperate to tell him. I chose you."
I know no author that can write such absolutely enchanting novellas. Tracy Sumner is the master of this historical type of books, keeping you in your toes from the first to the last page.
How she manages to keep the story so engaging, so permeated with heat and longing it is beyond me. There is so much emotion in these pages, there is not a single phrase unimportant, it is either poetry, or the best kind of action.
Not to mention I read hundreds of contemporary novels way less interesting than this - a lady that delves in pyrotechnics?! And the man she fell in love with when they met once in a bookstore?! And I'm not even getting into his character, what an amazing combo of wit and dare and shyness!
So I am more than grateful to have received this in order to share my views on it and I cannot recommend it enough!
I know no author that can write such absolutely enchanting novellas. Tracy Sumner is the master of this historical type of books, keeping you in your toes from the first to the last page.
How she manages to keep the story so engaging, so permeated with heat and longing it is beyond me. There is so much emotion in these pages, there is not a single phrase unimportant, it is either poetry, or the best kind of action.
Not to mention I read hundreds of contemporary novels way less interesting than this - a lady that delves in pyrotechnics?! And the man she fell in love with when they met once in a bookstore?! And I'm not even getting into his character, what an amazing combo of wit and dare and shyness!
So I am more than grateful to have received this in order to share my views on it and I cannot recommend it enough!
November 11, 2025
Thank you NetGalley. Louisa was a Duke's daughter who you would think had no trouble finding a husband. Her interest in blowing things up kept most of them away. Finally she decided on Dominic and though he felt like he was not good enough for her, Bessie tried to change her mind but she knew what she wanted. Though he didn't realize it because he didn't know what love was found he loved her very much.
November 18, 2025
A single kiss, a shocking scandal, and a marriage that’s anything but ordinary.
Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a knack for causing chaos and a talent for blowing things up—gardens, greenhouses, and her reputation. As the bold, brilliant daughter of a duke, she’s not searching for a typical, titled match. She wants Dominic Beckett, the man she’s never forgotten when at 15 he purchased a book for her when her father wouldn’t.
Dom isn’t exactly the picture of propriety. His past is marred with mistakes, and he keeps a tight grip on his present. The last thing he needs is the irresistible whirlwind that is Louisa. But after one fiery kiss ignites a full-blown scandal, marriage isn’t optional—it’s inevitable.
What was meant to be a sensible arrangement quickly turns into the riskiest gamble of all: falling in love.
Sumner’s latest novella isn’t just a story—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that will steal your heart and leave you grinning ear to ear. Sumner’s talent shines through every page, creating characters who leap off the page and into your soul. Louisa and Dom’s connection isn’t just steamy; it’s the emotional equivalent of a double-shot espresso—intense, bold, and impossible to ignore. They don’t just flirt and fall into bed; they advocate for, defend, and heal each other with a raw vulnerability that’s both touching and inspiring.
Louisa and Dom were perfect for each other. She supported him with his reading difficulties without judgment, never trying to fix him but simply standing by his side. In return, he never sought to change her, only to protect her from ridicule. I loved Dom—so vulnerable, honorable, and afraid to fall in love, yet he does so beautifully. Louisa, strong, intelligent, and driven by her passion for pyrotechnics experiments, loves Dom because he accepts her completely.
Fast-paced? Check. Steamy? Double-check. A fantastic ending that’ll leave you grinning like you just got free coffee? Triple-check. And let’s not forget: marriage might be practical, but falling dangerously in love? That’s Sumner’s specialty.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lady Louisa Radcliffe has a knack for causing chaos and a talent for blowing things up—gardens, greenhouses, and her reputation. As the bold, brilliant daughter of a duke, she’s not searching for a typical, titled match. She wants Dominic Beckett, the man she’s never forgotten when at 15 he purchased a book for her when her father wouldn’t.
Dom isn’t exactly the picture of propriety. His past is marred with mistakes, and he keeps a tight grip on his present. The last thing he needs is the irresistible whirlwind that is Louisa. But after one fiery kiss ignites a full-blown scandal, marriage isn’t optional—it’s inevitable.
What was meant to be a sensible arrangement quickly turns into the riskiest gamble of all: falling in love.
Sumner’s latest novella isn’t just a story—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that will steal your heart and leave you grinning ear to ear. Sumner’s talent shines through every page, creating characters who leap off the page and into your soul. Louisa and Dom’s connection isn’t just steamy; it’s the emotional equivalent of a double-shot espresso—intense, bold, and impossible to ignore. They don’t just flirt and fall into bed; they advocate for, defend, and heal each other with a raw vulnerability that’s both touching and inspiring.
Louisa and Dom were perfect for each other. She supported him with his reading difficulties without judgment, never trying to fix him but simply standing by his side. In return, he never sought to change her, only to protect her from ridicule. I loved Dom—so vulnerable, honorable, and afraid to fall in love, yet he does so beautifully. Louisa, strong, intelligent, and driven by her passion for pyrotechnics experiments, loves Dom because he accepts her completely.
Fast-paced? Check. Steamy? Double-check. A fantastic ending that’ll leave you grinning like you just got free coffee? Triple-check. And let’s not forget: marriage might be practical, but falling dangerously in love? That’s Sumner’s specialty.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2025
3.5⭐️ “Dom had no intention of letting Louisa remain a dream when he could make her his forever.”
🎰 Dominic Beckett - a second son with distinguished premature greying in his temples, had a horrible childhood as a misunderstood and ridiculed dyslexic. But numbers made sense to him, and once he saw he was actually successful at games of chance, he unintentionally got sucked in and ended up causing financial problems for his older brother. He was genuinely remorseful and sought ways to fix the situation.
👩🏻🔬 Lady Louisa Radcliffe - very clever with a one-track scientific mind, blunt in a way that was socially awkward, and had a lack of suitors due to her mostly disastrous pyrotechnic endeavors. A matchmaker had presented Louisa with a list of potential suitors that would be willing to enter into an arranged marriage, but Louisa felt nothing for any of those pretentious bores.
Seeing how much she loved chemistry in her lab experiments, it only made sense that she would desire chemistry in her marriage as well. Having never forgotten a kind-hearted boy in her teens, she asked for his name to be added to the list.
I loved this authors way of writing:
🧪- “He wasn’t strong enough to resist a dream when it met him in living color.”
🧪- “A lock of that unruly, ginger hair clung to her cheek, and he tucked it back with unsteady fingers before claiming her again, fiercer this time, as though he might devour her.”
🧪- “Dominic paused, arm falling to his side. “Quit looking at me like that, or the wedding night be damned. I’ll climb through your window to get to you.”
She shrugged as a rush of heat spiraled through her, ending its pathway right between her thighs. “Then climb.”
💥 - Having said all of that, by the end of the book, I felt Louisa had zero regard for her safety and she unfairly became enraged with Domenic when he became upset/concerned when her cheek was bleeding from glass vials exploding in her face. She could have lost an eye, cut a main artery, etc 🤯. So her overreaction ruined the happy feeling that I had going on all along thru the story unfortunately.
Checking off another bingo square with my cheerleader, Olga! 📚🍷
🎰 Dominic Beckett - a second son with distinguished premature greying in his temples, had a horrible childhood as a misunderstood and ridiculed dyslexic. But numbers made sense to him, and once he saw he was actually successful at games of chance, he unintentionally got sucked in and ended up causing financial problems for his older brother. He was genuinely remorseful and sought ways to fix the situation.
👩🏻🔬 Lady Louisa Radcliffe - very clever with a one-track scientific mind, blunt in a way that was socially awkward, and had a lack of suitors due to her mostly disastrous pyrotechnic endeavors. A matchmaker had presented Louisa with a list of potential suitors that would be willing to enter into an arranged marriage, but Louisa felt nothing for any of those pretentious bores.
Seeing how much she loved chemistry in her lab experiments, it only made sense that she would desire chemistry in her marriage as well. Having never forgotten a kind-hearted boy in her teens, she asked for his name to be added to the list.
I loved this authors way of writing:
🧪- “He wasn’t strong enough to resist a dream when it met him in living color.”
🧪- “A lock of that unruly, ginger hair clung to her cheek, and he tucked it back with unsteady fingers before claiming her again, fiercer this time, as though he might devour her.”
🧪- “Dominic paused, arm falling to his side. “Quit looking at me like that, or the wedding night be damned. I’ll climb through your window to get to you.”
She shrugged as a rush of heat spiraled through her, ending its pathway right between her thighs. “Then climb.”
💥 - Having said all of that, by the end of the book, I felt Louisa had zero regard for her safety and she unfairly became enraged with Domenic when he became upset/concerned when her cheek was bleeding from glass vials exploding in her face. She could have lost an eye, cut a main artery, etc 🤯. So her overreaction ruined the happy feeling that I had going on all along thru the story unfortunately.
Checking off another bingo square with my cheerleader, Olga! 📚🍷
November 20, 2025
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book. My only complaint is that it was too short. Don't get me wrong, it is a complete story and there is nothing lacking. It's just that I would have enjoyed it had it lasted a bit longer.
At the very beginning, we’re introduced to Lady Louisa Radcliffe, who is meeting with a matchmaker because scandal has driven her family to want to marry her off. The scandal is that she has had some mishaps in her chemistry lab as she works on pyrotechnics.
When Luisa was a young girl, she encountered Dominic Beckett in a bookstore. He made an impression on her and so she asks the Matchmaker, who happens to be his aunt, if he might make a good match for her. After giving it some thought, his aunt decides, sure. So she arranges for them to meet.
As an aside, I want to mention that Dom has dyslexia. Unfortunately, that's not something that would have been diagnosed at that time. I found his description of what he experienced wonderful: “Letters never stayed in their proper order, sliding about on the page like startled fish, making reading ofttimes near impossible.”
I won't say it's love at first sight, but it's pretty close to that, and they soon find themselves getting married. Louisa knows fairly early on that she has fallen in love with Dom, but she can see his hesitation to fall in love himself. Everything is going perfectly until Louisa has another mishap in her lab, and Dom says the wrong thing to her. After promising her that he would never interfere with her experiments, he demands that she stop because she's been injured. Furious, she takes off and goes to their sister-in-law's house, the one married to his brother.
The two spend the next few days missing one another and realizing how much they want to be together. Eventually, Dom figures out the right way to apologize and they find their how happily ever after. It's a very sweet story (spicy, of course), and I really enjoyed it.
At the very beginning, we’re introduced to Lady Louisa Radcliffe, who is meeting with a matchmaker because scandal has driven her family to want to marry her off. The scandal is that she has had some mishaps in her chemistry lab as she works on pyrotechnics.
When Luisa was a young girl, she encountered Dominic Beckett in a bookstore. He made an impression on her and so she asks the Matchmaker, who happens to be his aunt, if he might make a good match for her. After giving it some thought, his aunt decides, sure. So she arranges for them to meet.
As an aside, I want to mention that Dom has dyslexia. Unfortunately, that's not something that would have been diagnosed at that time. I found his description of what he experienced wonderful: “Letters never stayed in their proper order, sliding about on the page like startled fish, making reading ofttimes near impossible.”
I won't say it's love at first sight, but it's pretty close to that, and they soon find themselves getting married. Louisa knows fairly early on that she has fallen in love with Dom, but she can see his hesitation to fall in love himself. Everything is going perfectly until Louisa has another mishap in her lab, and Dom says the wrong thing to her. After promising her that he would never interfere with her experiments, he demands that she stop because she's been injured. Furious, she takes off and goes to their sister-in-law's house, the one married to his brother.
The two spend the next few days missing one another and realizing how much they want to be together. Eventually, Dom figures out the right way to apologize and they find their how happily ever after. It's a very sweet story (spicy, of course), and I really enjoyed it.
November 20, 2025
The Lyon Who Desired Me by Tracy Sumner
A Lyon’s Den Connected World
~ A chance meeting in a book store years ago has never left Louisa’s mind ~ The kind young man with blue eyes is the one she wants and perhaps he is the one she will have for her husband ~ Loved this story! ~
What I liked:
* Lady Louisa: one of four sisters, interested in chemistry and concocting explosives, impetuous, daring, forthright, knows what she wants and goes after it, stands up for her rights,
* Dominic: second son, dyslexic, difficulties with his father and at school, good with numbers, in business with his brother, drawn to Louisa, caring, generous, romantic
* Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon: matchmaker, always veiled, widow, owns the Lyon’s Den gambling hall
* That Louisa stuns Mrs. Dove-Lyon when she requests Dominic be added to her potential suitors
* Griff: Dominic’s older titled brother, happily married with a young son, wise, supportive, a good man
* The instant chemistry between Louisa and Dominic and that I believe they are good for and perfect for one another
* Some of the steamy scenes
* That society and perhaps some family members underestimated and were unable to see the talented people Louis and Dominic were BUT they saw one another clearly
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about what Louisa would have had to put up with if she had not married Dominic
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Dragonblade for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
A Lyon’s Den Connected World
~ A chance meeting in a book store years ago has never left Louisa’s mind ~ The kind young man with blue eyes is the one she wants and perhaps he is the one she will have for her husband ~ Loved this story! ~
What I liked:
* Lady Louisa: one of four sisters, interested in chemistry and concocting explosives, impetuous, daring, forthright, knows what she wants and goes after it, stands up for her rights,
* Dominic: second son, dyslexic, difficulties with his father and at school, good with numbers, in business with his brother, drawn to Louisa, caring, generous, romantic
* Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon: matchmaker, always veiled, widow, owns the Lyon’s Den gambling hall
* That Louisa stuns Mrs. Dove-Lyon when she requests Dominic be added to her potential suitors
* Griff: Dominic’s older titled brother, happily married with a young son, wise, supportive, a good man
* The instant chemistry between Louisa and Dominic and that I believe they are good for and perfect for one another
* Some of the steamy scenes
* That society and perhaps some family members underestimated and were unable to see the talented people Louis and Dominic were BUT they saw one another clearly
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about what Louisa would have had to put up with if she had not married Dominic
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Dragonblade for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
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