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Victorian Outcasts #11
Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan
He wants revenge. She believes in his redemption. Loving her may cost him everything.
Lord Tristan is accustomed to taking what he wants—and now he wants Effie, the compassionate, quietly determined daughter of his business rival, the Earl of Winchester. Their connection is immediate, dangerous, and deeply forbidden.
Effie refuses to believe the cruel portrait her father paints of Tristan. Beneath his commanding presence and ruthless reputation, she glimpses a man burdened by grief, addiction, and a darkness he keeps carefully hidden. Against her father’s wishes, Effie is determined to reach the man behind the walls—even if it costs her everything.
When a devastating bombing at Aldersgate Station cripples Tristan’s railway company, he becomes convinced the Earl of Winchester is responsible. Consumed by fury and grief, Tristan prepares to strike back with calculated vengeance. But revenge would destroy the one woman who still believes in him.
Caught between justice and obsession, love and retaliation, Tristan must decide whether to surrender to his darkness—or fight for a future where Effie might still choose him.
Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan is a darkly emotional Victorian romance that confronts grief, addiction, and redemption head-on. Blending forbidden love with high-stakes revenge and raw vulnerability, this story delivers a brooding hero, a courageous heroine, and a powerful journey toward healing. Perfect for readers who crave intense emotion, complex characters, and romance that dares to explore the shadows—and the light beyond them.
Please Includes themes of self-harm (non-cutting), addiction, physical injury to a child, grief and loss, depression, panic attacks, and violence related to boxing and industrial sabotage.
Lord Tristan is accustomed to taking what he wants—and now he wants Effie, the compassionate, quietly determined daughter of his business rival, the Earl of Winchester. Their connection is immediate, dangerous, and deeply forbidden.
Effie refuses to believe the cruel portrait her father paints of Tristan. Beneath his commanding presence and ruthless reputation, she glimpses a man burdened by grief, addiction, and a darkness he keeps carefully hidden. Against her father’s wishes, Effie is determined to reach the man behind the walls—even if it costs her everything.
When a devastating bombing at Aldersgate Station cripples Tristan’s railway company, he becomes convinced the Earl of Winchester is responsible. Consumed by fury and grief, Tristan prepares to strike back with calculated vengeance. But revenge would destroy the one woman who still believes in him.
Caught between justice and obsession, love and retaliation, Tristan must decide whether to surrender to his darkness—or fight for a future where Effie might still choose him.
Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan is a darkly emotional Victorian romance that confronts grief, addiction, and redemption head-on. Blending forbidden love with high-stakes revenge and raw vulnerability, this story delivers a brooding hero, a courageous heroine, and a powerful journey toward healing. Perfect for readers who crave intense emotion, complex characters, and romance that dares to explore the shadows—and the light beyond them.
Please Includes themes of self-harm (non-cutting), addiction, physical injury to a child, grief and loss, depression, panic attacks, and violence related to boxing and industrial sabotage.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 26, 2026
This first book in the Victorian Outcasts series was a very intense historical romance forbidden love with revenge and vulnerability. The characters were very interesting and complex souls with a strong chemistry. The drama, action, dark emotions, danger, addiction to pain, revenge, a terrorist plot, and other emotional issues and twists were very entertaining and moving. I enjoyed how delightful everything works out in the end. I recommend reading!
February 28, 2026
Thanks to Booksirens for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is book 11, but as with the other stories, this can be read as a stand alone story. One aspect I have loved about many books in this series is how the author provides a detailed view of a past event that is significant in moulding the main characters. This story opens with a young boy, Tristan. Despite being the son of a Marquess of Montcrest, Tristan is forced into begging at the home of the Earl of Winchester, father of Effie, and a former friend and associate of his father. He and his father are destitute and shunned by Society for a number of things, not the least of which is the association with treasonous events. Effie is witness to this, and being an incredibly empathic and compassionate individual, confronts her father after his rejection of the starving, desperate boy, and shames him into secretly providing some aid for the Marquess and his son.
As time goes on, Tristan and his father recoup their wealth through hard work and developing cutting business savvy. Those lean, desparate years alone have taught Tristan to be focused on business, and hard work, with a strong desire to never be poor again, and a lack of trust in others. This creates a wall between him and his remaining family, and any people who dare to be friends with him. He has a reputation for cold ruthlessness. It is difficult for him to relate to others, even when he desires to, such as with his brother, and he distrusts many in Society, remembering how many of them treated him and his family during their worst times. He is dark and broken inside, and secretly seeks pain in underground fighting to feel anything, or to alleviate his own personal inner darkness.
Effie also grows up, frequently in the country, as the beloved child in a large family, and developing her love of animals and desire to care for them, despite women not being allowed to pursue learning in medicine or veteranary care at the time. But being loved and indulged by her parents, she is allowed to unofficially pursue her passion. She and Tristan meet again, years later, when he seeks to confront her father over a piece of land he wants for his railway, and instead faces off with Effie over the concern she has for his inadvertent neglect of his horse.
Tristan finds himself confounded by Effie who is very different from the manipulative, vainglorious, selfish, rapacious mothers and daughters he is used to in Society. He finds himself wanting to court her and wanting to change for her. But Effie, despite remembering him as a child, finds herself put off by his coldness and wary of his reputation, as well as being warned off of him by her beloved father. But then, she is confused by her attraction to him, and the glimpses of vulnerability and pain that he sometimes shows her causes her to want to be closer to him to discover more of the real Tristan that she feels is behind that cold facade he shows.
But her father, the Earl, is deeply resentful against Tristan, because of actions of his and his father's past, and he proves to be a determined barrier to their relationship, and his and Tristan's business rivalry proves to become more of an impediment when actions taken also put loved one's lives on the line.
I loved the character of Effie and her love of animals, warmth and empathy. Such a great contrast to Tristan and the cold focused businessman that he became. I enjoyed how Tristan developed a yearning for Effie and her warmth, though she was understandably put off by him. However, when she is willing to in his sphere, she starts to see there is more to him, and helps him to connect to others, including his own brother, and overcome his own reserve and distrust. I enjoyed how the story of the two families were flipped a bit, in the context of both their father's and scandal/hints of treason, but Winchester did not suffer any real consequences for his association with a rebellious element. The theme of the dangers of scandal and gossip is evident through this story in several ways.
This feels a bit Beauty and the Beast, with Tristan being a beast in reputation, darkness within, and personality, as well as Romeo and Juliet in how there are several interested parties striving to keep the two of them apart.
Usually, books in this series don't relate, but I would love to see the character of Lord Rowan again - considering the trauma he suffered in terms of his stunted familial relationships, then the trauma of the explosion and injury, he has the makings of a character that belongs in this series.
4.25 stars out of 5
This is book 11, but as with the other stories, this can be read as a stand alone story. One aspect I have loved about many books in this series is how the author provides a detailed view of a past event that is significant in moulding the main characters. This story opens with a young boy, Tristan. Despite being the son of a Marquess of Montcrest, Tristan is forced into begging at the home of the Earl of Winchester, father of Effie, and a former friend and associate of his father. He and his father are destitute and shunned by Society for a number of things, not the least of which is the association with treasonous events. Effie is witness to this, and being an incredibly empathic and compassionate individual, confronts her father after his rejection of the starving, desperate boy, and shames him into secretly providing some aid for the Marquess and his son.
As time goes on, Tristan and his father recoup their wealth through hard work and developing cutting business savvy. Those lean, desparate years alone have taught Tristan to be focused on business, and hard work, with a strong desire to never be poor again, and a lack of trust in others. This creates a wall between him and his remaining family, and any people who dare to be friends with him. He has a reputation for cold ruthlessness. It is difficult for him to relate to others, even when he desires to, such as with his brother, and he distrusts many in Society, remembering how many of them treated him and his family during their worst times. He is dark and broken inside, and secretly seeks pain in underground fighting to feel anything, or to alleviate his own personal inner darkness.
Effie also grows up, frequently in the country, as the beloved child in a large family, and developing her love of animals and desire to care for them, despite women not being allowed to pursue learning in medicine or veteranary care at the time. But being loved and indulged by her parents, she is allowed to unofficially pursue her passion. She and Tristan meet again, years later, when he seeks to confront her father over a piece of land he wants for his railway, and instead faces off with Effie over the concern she has for his inadvertent neglect of his horse.
Tristan finds himself confounded by Effie who is very different from the manipulative, vainglorious, selfish, rapacious mothers and daughters he is used to in Society. He finds himself wanting to court her and wanting to change for her. But Effie, despite remembering him as a child, finds herself put off by his coldness and wary of his reputation, as well as being warned off of him by her beloved father. But then, she is confused by her attraction to him, and the glimpses of vulnerability and pain that he sometimes shows her causes her to want to be closer to him to discover more of the real Tristan that she feels is behind that cold facade he shows.
But her father, the Earl, is deeply resentful against Tristan, because of actions of his and his father's past, and he proves to be a determined barrier to their relationship, and his and Tristan's business rivalry proves to become more of an impediment when actions taken also put loved one's lives on the line.
I loved the character of Effie and her love of animals, warmth and empathy. Such a great contrast to Tristan and the cold focused businessman that he became. I enjoyed how Tristan developed a yearning for Effie and her warmth, though she was understandably put off by him. However, when she is willing to in his sphere, she starts to see there is more to him, and helps him to connect to others, including his own brother, and overcome his own reserve and distrust. I enjoyed how the story of the two families were flipped a bit, in the context of both their father's and scandal/hints of treason, but Winchester did not suffer any real consequences for his association with a rebellious element. The theme of the dangers of scandal and gossip is evident through this story in several ways.
This feels a bit Beauty and the Beast, with Tristan being a beast in reputation, darkness within, and personality, as well as Romeo and Juliet in how there are several interested parties striving to keep the two of them apart.
Usually, books in this series don't relate, but I would love to see the character of Lord Rowan again - considering the trauma he suffered in terms of his stunted familial relationships, then the trauma of the explosion and injury, he has the makings of a character that belongs in this series.
4.25 stars out of 5
February 24, 2026
Yet another great addition to the series, which I have been devouring since the first book!
Barbara Russell crafts an extraordinary plot every single time, weaving past tragic real-life events into a touching love story with appealing, complex characters whose lives go off the rails and who experience great pain, angst and often self-destructive behavior until they regain their footing and find their happy ending. This time it's about Tristan, a broken hero who still struggles with his past, the ruined honor of his family, his shame and his fears, becoming addicted to pain and deliberately allowing himself to be injured in illegal fights. At times, it was truly heartbreaking to witness his inner demons and struggles which were palpable throughout the entire book. Effie is warm-hearted, intelligent, caring and supportive. I really liked her open and compassionate nature and her calming influence on people and animals. Their chemistry was great and I loved the way their relationship developed despite all the secrets, drama and obstacles. I also liked Tristan's younger brother and his business partner George, and his servants, who made the plot even more intense.
Lord Tristan, Marquess of Montcrest, grew up in poverty and as a social outcast after his grandfather speculated away the family fortune and was accused of high treason. He spent his entire youth working side by side with his father to rebuild his family's business after the financial disaster his grandfather had caused. Now he is known as an aloof and ruthless businessman who puts his duties and the restoration of his family's honour above all else, but must hide his unhealthy urges. Since an attack that left him in a coma for months, he has felt an inner restlessness that can only be alleviated by physical pain, and his need for pain has grown in intensity over time. When his business rival, the Earl of Winchester, refuses to sell him a piece of land he needs to build a railway line, he visits him at home and meets Lady Effie, Winchester's youngest daughter, who had once helped him as a child.
Effie would like to be a vet, but women are not allowed to study. Nevertheless, she treats sick animals, including Lord Montcrest's horse. She is attracted to the enigmatic man who, behind his tough exterior, is vulnerable and frightened. Tristan is also attracted to her kindness and compassion, and she becomes his calming influence. But then their disaster strikes, their family rivalry escalates and Effie discovers his secret...
This book is for anyone who enjoys captivating, gut-wrenching Victorian romance novels with unconventional plots, historical tidbits, troubled protagonists, heartfelt emotions, drama and a little steam.
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
Barbara Russell crafts an extraordinary plot every single time, weaving past tragic real-life events into a touching love story with appealing, complex characters whose lives go off the rails and who experience great pain, angst and often self-destructive behavior until they regain their footing and find their happy ending. This time it's about Tristan, a broken hero who still struggles with his past, the ruined honor of his family, his shame and his fears, becoming addicted to pain and deliberately allowing himself to be injured in illegal fights. At times, it was truly heartbreaking to witness his inner demons and struggles which were palpable throughout the entire book. Effie is warm-hearted, intelligent, caring and supportive. I really liked her open and compassionate nature and her calming influence on people and animals. Their chemistry was great and I loved the way their relationship developed despite all the secrets, drama and obstacles. I also liked Tristan's younger brother and his business partner George, and his servants, who made the plot even more intense.
Lord Tristan, Marquess of Montcrest, grew up in poverty and as a social outcast after his grandfather speculated away the family fortune and was accused of high treason. He spent his entire youth working side by side with his father to rebuild his family's business after the financial disaster his grandfather had caused. Now he is known as an aloof and ruthless businessman who puts his duties and the restoration of his family's honour above all else, but must hide his unhealthy urges. Since an attack that left him in a coma for months, he has felt an inner restlessness that can only be alleviated by physical pain, and his need for pain has grown in intensity over time. When his business rival, the Earl of Winchester, refuses to sell him a piece of land he needs to build a railway line, he visits him at home and meets Lady Effie, Winchester's youngest daughter, who had once helped him as a child.
Effie would like to be a vet, but women are not allowed to study. Nevertheless, she treats sick animals, including Lord Montcrest's horse. She is attracted to the enigmatic man who, behind his tough exterior, is vulnerable and frightened. Tristan is also attracted to her kindness and compassion, and she becomes his calming influence. But then their disaster strikes, their family rivalry escalates and Effie discovers his secret...
This book is for anyone who enjoys captivating, gut-wrenching Victorian romance novels with unconventional plots, historical tidbits, troubled protagonists, heartfelt emotions, drama and a little steam.
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
He wants revenge. She believes in his redemption. Loving her may cost him everything.
Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan is a darkly romantic Victorian tale that masterfully intertwines vengeance, forbidden love, and the possibility of redemption. Lord Tristan, a man scarred by grief and consumed by obsession, has built his life on ruthlessness and self-reliance. Effie, the compassionate and quietly courageous daughter of his sworn enemy, sees past his cold façade to the broken man within.
The story begins with a poignant past: a destitute young Tristan seeks aid from Effie’s father, only to be refused. Effie alone shows him kindness, bringing food and a glimmer of hope. Years later, hardened by loss and driven by a relentless need for retribution after a devastating railway bombing, Tristan has rebuilt his fortune and earned a reputation as a ruthless businessman. It is through his suffering horse—and Effie’s tender care—that their paths cross again, reigniting a connection that is immediate, dangerous, and deeply forbidden.
Effie, self-taught in veterinary medicine, embodies nurturing strength and quiet defiance in a world that limits her aspirations. While her father warns her against Tristan, she trusts the man she glimpses beneath the armor of bitterness and addiction. Their relationship unfolds against a backdrop of family conflict, business rivalries, and long-buried secrets. Effie’s unwavering love becomes the catalyst for Tristan’s painful but necessary journey toward healing and redemption.
This novel thrives on the tension of love versus vengeance, painting a vivid picture of two souls caught between society’s expectations and the shadows of their pasts. The author excels at creating complex characters layered with vulnerability and strength, while weaving a plot that keeps the pages turning.
Effie’s goodness helps Tristan become a better man, their journey was difficult but in the end love prevailed. Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan is more than a romance—it is an emotional exploration of grief, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. I loved it and think you will too!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan is a darkly romantic Victorian tale that masterfully intertwines vengeance, forbidden love, and the possibility of redemption. Lord Tristan, a man scarred by grief and consumed by obsession, has built his life on ruthlessness and self-reliance. Effie, the compassionate and quietly courageous daughter of his sworn enemy, sees past his cold façade to the broken man within.
The story begins with a poignant past: a destitute young Tristan seeks aid from Effie’s father, only to be refused. Effie alone shows him kindness, bringing food and a glimmer of hope. Years later, hardened by loss and driven by a relentless need for retribution after a devastating railway bombing, Tristan has rebuilt his fortune and earned a reputation as a ruthless businessman. It is through his suffering horse—and Effie’s tender care—that their paths cross again, reigniting a connection that is immediate, dangerous, and deeply forbidden.
Effie, self-taught in veterinary medicine, embodies nurturing strength and quiet defiance in a world that limits her aspirations. While her father warns her against Tristan, she trusts the man she glimpses beneath the armor of bitterness and addiction. Their relationship unfolds against a backdrop of family conflict, business rivalries, and long-buried secrets. Effie’s unwavering love becomes the catalyst for Tristan’s painful but necessary journey toward healing and redemption.
This novel thrives on the tension of love versus vengeance, painting a vivid picture of two souls caught between society’s expectations and the shadows of their pasts. The author excels at creating complex characters layered with vulnerability and strength, while weaving a plot that keeps the pages turning.
Effie’s goodness helps Tristan become a better man, their journey was difficult but in the end love prevailed. Don’t Be Gentle with Lord Tristan is more than a romance—it is an emotional exploration of grief, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. I loved it and think you will too!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2026
Wow what an emotional story, so many ups and downs for both Effie and Tristan. Effie helped Lord Tristan and his father when they fell on hard times and needed food. Her father was his father’s rival and wasn’t going to help till she stepped in. It saved them from starvation. Much later when he comes to see why her father will not sell him land, she sees that his horse, Zeus, is in a bad way from over drinking. Tristan was shocked he didn’t see his favorite horse and friend was sick. Effie is the thirteen child of the Earl of Winchester and the only one not married. She wants to be a veterinary, but it not allowed for woman. She studies every book she can find and helps every animal person bring to her. She can’t stand for any to suffer. Tristan has a bad reputation due to his father's actions. His uncle and him have worked hard to repair what his father lost. With his younger brother, he is trying hard to hold on. But he is hiding his dangerous addiction that could get him killed. Which would make another person who left his brother, Rowan. There is a lot of pain, suffering, danger, and evil within this story. But also, a ton of passion, love and hope. Once you get started, you will not be able to put it down. I have read all but one of the books in this series and they are all great. They do not have to be read in any order. One cannot forget about, Kettle the cat and Pepper the dog either. Be sure to grab a copy and get started. Don’t plan to do anything for a while! I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
Review of advance copy
We have a very unusual couple! Our heroine is a healer of wounded animals and is skilled in the science of Veterinary Medicine!
Lady Euphemia “Effie” Calpurnia the thirteenth daughter of the Earl of Winchester she is stubborn and confronts her father over some alarming news.
Lord Tristan son of the Marquess of Montcrest has come asking for assistance from his mortal enemy! He and his father are literally starving (1881)!
Effie comes to the rescue then and 16 years later. He again has come this time he is very rich, handsome and does not like to take no for an answer!
Effie sees his horse is gravely ill and literally saves his life! Tristan is appalled at his own negligence and this starts a most unlikely friendship/courtship!
Tristan and Effie are like a moth to a flame the more time he spends with her sends him to his other dark obsession of self harm with almost dire consequences! When a Russian bomb injured his younger brother Rowan and almost seriously harm him and Effie all bets are off!
When the road leads back to Effie’s father revenge is the menu for several days!
Effie requests he stop but other forces are at work! Can Effie help Tristan stop his physical self destruction long enough to cure him and forge a future!
Effie is sweet, beautiful but ruthless in her resolve to protect Tristan from himself! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from BookSirens for my honest opinion!
Lady Euphemia “Effie” Calpurnia the thirteenth daughter of the Earl of Winchester she is stubborn and confronts her father over some alarming news.
Lord Tristan son of the Marquess of Montcrest has come asking for assistance from his mortal enemy! He and his father are literally starving (1881)!
Effie comes to the rescue then and 16 years later. He again has come this time he is very rich, handsome and does not like to take no for an answer!
Effie sees his horse is gravely ill and literally saves his life! Tristan is appalled at his own negligence and this starts a most unlikely friendship/courtship!
Tristan and Effie are like a moth to a flame the more time he spends with her sends him to his other dark obsession of self harm with almost dire consequences! When a Russian bomb injured his younger brother Rowan and almost seriously harm him and Effie all bets are off!
When the road leads back to Effie’s father revenge is the menu for several days!
Effie requests he stop but other forces are at work! Can Effie help Tristan stop his physical self destruction long enough to cure him and forge a future!
Effie is sweet, beautiful but ruthless in her resolve to protect Tristan from himself! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from BookSirens for my honest opinion!
March 3, 2026
This was such an emotional, angsty historical romance—and I was hooked from the very first chapter.
Lord Tristan is the kind of hero you love to hate at first: powerful, brooding, ruthless, and absolutely convinced that revenge is the only thing keeping him standing. But underneath the icy control is a man shattered by grief and battling addiction, and watching those layers slowly peel back was incredibly satisfying.
Effie is the true heart of the story. She’s compassionate without being naive, strong without being loud, and determined in a way that feels quietly heroic. I loved that she sees the humanity in Tristan even when he’s determined to prove he has none. Her belief in his redemption never felt foolish—it felt brave.
The forbidden romance between a rival’s daughter and a man bent on vengeance brings delicious tension. The bombing at Aldersgate Station raises the stakes dramatically, pushing Tristan to the edge and forcing him to choose between destruction and love. The emotional conflict—revenge versus redemption—carries the entire novel and makes every interaction feel charged.
If you enjoy tortured heroes, morally gray choices, and a heroine who believes in love as a transformative force, this one delivers. It’s dramatic, swoony, and just dark enough to keep your heart in your throat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lord Tristan is the kind of hero you love to hate at first: powerful, brooding, ruthless, and absolutely convinced that revenge is the only thing keeping him standing. But underneath the icy control is a man shattered by grief and battling addiction, and watching those layers slowly peel back was incredibly satisfying.
Effie is the true heart of the story. She’s compassionate without being naive, strong without being loud, and determined in a way that feels quietly heroic. I loved that she sees the humanity in Tristan even when he’s determined to prove he has none. Her belief in his redemption never felt foolish—it felt brave.
The forbidden romance between a rival’s daughter and a man bent on vengeance brings delicious tension. The bombing at Aldersgate Station raises the stakes dramatically, pushing Tristan to the edge and forcing him to choose between destruction and love. The emotional conflict—revenge versus redemption—carries the entire novel and makes every interaction feel charged.
If you enjoy tortured heroes, morally gray choices, and a heroine who believes in love as a transformative force, this one delivers. It’s dramatic, swoony, and just dark enough to keep your heart in your throat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Very well written by this fantastic storyteller, she keeps you turning the pages while the storyline has some triggers you may want to read the warnings. Full of drama, abuse, pain, emotions, society, intrigue and family. Lady Effie is the 13th child and living at home. The rest of her siblings are all married and her mother is living in their country home. She and her father, Lord Winchester are in London. Effie is hoping to return to the country , where she can take care of the animals. Pepper, her dog and Kettle, her cat, are both with her. Lord Tristan, Marquess of Montcrest, shows up to her home wanting to talk to her father. She remembers him looking for food or any kind of help years ago. Tristan has arrived at her home on his horse and she notices right away that the horse was a little colic. She helps the horse and Tristan realizes that she has not changed from when she helped him years ago. She heads to his house to check on both him and his horse and meets his brother, Rowan, and his Uncle George. As she spends some time there she notices that some strange things going on and has to be strong and stand up to Tristan. Lots of action, a bomb explosion, injuries from beatings, lies and so much more. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat. Fabulous read. Would strongly recommend to everyone.
February 25, 2026
Montagues and Capulets of the Victorian Era
Lord Tristan has known the most abject poverty as a child. At the time, Effie had convinced her father to help with basic necessities.
Years later, Lord Tristan has redressed his financial situation through investments in the railroads. Lord Winchester, Effie’s father, refuses to sell him a piece of sterile land to expand his railroad line. He is acting out of spite concerning a past incident when Lord Tristan’s father had allegedly robbed his of a business deal.
Lord Tristan has anger issues and when that happens, he indulges regularly in bare knuckle fighting that leaves him sometimes more than less badly hurt. An incident; where strangers had severely beaten him and left him unconscious for months, has engendered an addiction to pain.
When an explosion destroys his new locomotive, endangers Effie and hurts his younger half-brother, Tristan is convinced that Effie’s father, Lord Winchester, is the instigator, and seeks revenge by ruining him. Lord Winchester, who denies any complicity, is, however, at least guilty of doing nothing although aware that anarchists were planning a bomb attack.
Will his revenge plans cause Tristan to lose Effie forever or will he see reason? And who else continues to undermine Lord Winchester’s finances?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lord Tristan has known the most abject poverty as a child. At the time, Effie had convinced her father to help with basic necessities.
Years later, Lord Tristan has redressed his financial situation through investments in the railroads. Lord Winchester, Effie’s father, refuses to sell him a piece of sterile land to expand his railroad line. He is acting out of spite concerning a past incident when Lord Tristan’s father had allegedly robbed his of a business deal.
Lord Tristan has anger issues and when that happens, he indulges regularly in bare knuckle fighting that leaves him sometimes more than less badly hurt. An incident; where strangers had severely beaten him and left him unconscious for months, has engendered an addiction to pain.
When an explosion destroys his new locomotive, endangers Effie and hurts his younger half-brother, Tristan is convinced that Effie’s father, Lord Winchester, is the instigator, and seeks revenge by ruining him. Lord Winchester, who denies any complicity, is, however, at least guilty of doing nothing although aware that anarchists were planning a bomb attack.
Will his revenge plans cause Tristan to lose Effie forever or will he see reason? And who else continues to undermine Lord Winchester’s finances?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This book explores and reveals our complex nature. Lord Tristan, successful businessman, stern, severe, aloof, uncompromising, and loyal to the core. Relationships are not easy with him. He lives up to his reputation, or perhaps his reputation helps cement him. However, nothing is ever quite as it seems. Effie, 13th daughter of the Earl of Winchester, has a special heart. She challenges those around her to be their best and reminds them of their duty and to do what is right. She is devoted to her pursuit of veterinary medicine. Being a woman makes this a singularly challenging task; one she does not shy away from. Effie’s and Tristan worlds collide through Zeus, Rowan, and conflicts in business. Secrets are kept, secrets are revealed and life gets a bit complicated. Effie’s healing spirit provides a catalyst for Tristan to overcome a dangerous addiction. Effie’s capacity for love and for trusting in that love speaks volumes. She weaves a web of caring, concern, and confidence that provides a safe haven for healing and change. I love that this author knows how to weave complex characters into a must-read story. This is a 5-star journey that filled my heart with joy. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 12, 2026
Review copy
Effie and Tristan. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that I’ve liked right from the start. But this one… so sad and so sweet at the same time.
You can tell the story is set in the Victorian era; it’s described very well.
Because he was on the brink of losing everything, Tristan has earned his ambition. But everything comes at a price.
His obsession with pain even caused me pain as I read.
Where he is stubborn, cold and emotionless (supposedly), she is the exact opposite.
Effie is so loving, helpful, enthusiastic, accommodating and positive. That’s exactly what he liked so much about her. And luckily she had those qualities, because otherwise she wouldn’t have been able to get him out of his situation.
There was nothing missing from the story. Love, romance, spice and that sizzling chemistry... The plot twist. Ooh!!
The concept behind the story and the author’s writing style really put her in my top 10 for this year. I devoured it and read it in no time. It just clicks for me. So, anyone who gets the chance to read books by this author, please grab it.
My favourite word in the book: blimey.
I received an Copy from the Author. This is my honest review.🥰
Effie and Tristan. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that I’ve liked right from the start. But this one… so sad and so sweet at the same time.
You can tell the story is set in the Victorian era; it’s described very well.
Because he was on the brink of losing everything, Tristan has earned his ambition. But everything comes at a price.
His obsession with pain even caused me pain as I read.
Where he is stubborn, cold and emotionless (supposedly), she is the exact opposite.
Effie is so loving, helpful, enthusiastic, accommodating and positive. That’s exactly what he liked so much about her. And luckily she had those qualities, because otherwise she wouldn’t have been able to get him out of his situation.
There was nothing missing from the story. Love, romance, spice and that sizzling chemistry... The plot twist. Ooh!!
The concept behind the story and the author’s writing style really put her in my top 10 for this year. I devoured it and read it in no time. It just clicks for me. So, anyone who gets the chance to read books by this author, please grab it.
My favourite word in the book: blimey.
I received an Copy from the Author. This is my honest review.🥰
Read
February 15, 2026This was a story about a man who was struggling and then found his salvation. Lord Tristan suffered poverty and loss in his youth. He ultimately grew up to become a wealthy and ruthless businessman. However, he was unable to fully leave the shame and loneliness of his early years behind him.
Effie is the daughter of a wealthy lord. Her father is a long-time business rival of Lord Tristan. She once had a soft spot for Tristan but she sees that he is no longer the same person. She has dreams of being a veterinarian, but as a woman, caring for animals can't ever be more than a hobby. Nonetheless, her nurturing spirit and medical knowledge do cross over to other aspects of her life.
Tristan and Effie initially begin to bond over a sick horse. Effie soon realizes that the master of the horse needs healing as well. She sticks with Tristan as they work through some issues. It was rough going, but they do get their happy ending.
This romance was very touching and the handsome Lord Tristan is adorably awkward. I enjoyed reading their scenes together. I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
Effie is the daughter of a wealthy lord. Her father is a long-time business rival of Lord Tristan. She once had a soft spot for Tristan but she sees that he is no longer the same person. She has dreams of being a veterinarian, but as a woman, caring for animals can't ever be more than a hobby. Nonetheless, her nurturing spirit and medical knowledge do cross over to other aspects of her life.
Tristan and Effie initially begin to bond over a sick horse. Effie soon realizes that the master of the horse needs healing as well. She sticks with Tristan as they work through some issues. It was rough going, but they do get their happy ending.
This romance was very touching and the handsome Lord Tristan is adorably awkward. I enjoyed reading their scenes together. I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
March 8, 2026
Dr. Euphemia Doolittle
Although owning most of the novels in this series, I don’t recall a first chapter in this set as memorable as this one. It’s a story about the overwhelming kindness of Lady Euphemia, aka Effie, her desire to be a veterinarian, and her keen interest to understand and rectify the animosity between her family and her neighbors. After surviving a nearly devastating blow to his family’s integrity and business connections, Lord Tristan has built a thriving business in steam engines. This has not been without personal costs: a strained relationship with his young brother Rowan, an aloofness with his friend George, and a compulsion to engage in bare knuckle fights.
Read what initially sparks an interest between the MC’s and the evolution of their personal relationship. Russell easily engages readers with a well loved trope, a good plot, wonderful characters and emotionally charged dialogue with a touch of whimsy. I am reminded of a particular story penned by Russell in “What Happens in Brighton”. It was LOL hilarious, and a testament to her literary capability. How good is this particular novel? Good enough to purchase for rereading.
May 18, 2026
Two incredibly strong and unique characters, who have a positive past encounter, meet as grown ups and are fascinated by each other. However bitterness, trauma, misunderstandings and family cause what would have been an interesting but relatively simple opposite attracts romance (of a grumpy/distant mmc and a sunshine, eccentric fmc) into something much more complex and deeper. Barbara Russell is fantastic at creating these in depth and unique plots that really delve into the psyche of her characters. I also just really adored Effie, the mfc, from the start she us quite an explosive force on the page. The way she loves animals and tackles the issue of Tristan's sick horse with her knowledge of animal husbandry. She is not afraid to be bossy and take control.
This book is perfect for readers who like strong unique characters, intriguing and dramatic plots as well as deeper psychological insight into characters actions. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is perfect for readers who like strong unique characters, intriguing and dramatic plots as well as deeper psychological insight into characters actions. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 27, 2026
Effie and Tristan met some years ago. Effie convinced her father to help Tristan and his father when they were near destitute and starving. Tristan has since become the Marquess of Montcrest and has brought the family back to solvency. When they next meet, there is an immediate attraction. There are obstacles, not he least of which is a feud of sorts between Effie’s father and, first Tristan’s father and, now Tristan. This is an engaging story that brings together a damaged hero and the strong and compassionate woman who sees beyond his vulnerability. Effie brings understanding to Tristan, his brother Rowan, and even his horse (she loves taking care of animals). Their emotional story has drama, action, danger, revenge, anarchists, addiction, and redemption. It is quite a journey to a happy ending for Tristan and Effie.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
Review of advance copy
Lady Euphemia “Effie” Calpurnia, daughter of the Earl of Winchester, is a healer of wounded animals, and studies veterinary medicine. She once helped Lord Tristan, now the Marquess of Montcrest, when he and his father were starving and in need. When they meet as adults, attraction sparks between them, but can Effie heal Tristan’s addiction? Wonderfully emotional story of two wounded souls who are drawn to each other, but can each heal the other’s hurts and be what the other needs to move forward in life? Filled with drama, emotion, addiction, revenge, lots of animals, and a bit of danger, this is an entertaining and moving romance.
I received a free copy, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I received a free copy, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Review of advance copy
Tristan and his family were brought to destitution when Effie convinced her father to offer them food and I think he fell in love with her then. But years later her father won’t sell him land to expand and then he accuses him of participating in the bomb that destroyed his locomotive and injured his brother and he starts his plan of revenge. There’s some back and forth between them, but Tristan wants to marry Effie while battling his need for pain. Effie has a passion for treating animals even if she can’t obtain the degree. This was a steamy romance.
Review of advance copy
I enjoyed reading Effie and Tristan’s romance. The characters are well-developed.
Tristan is a complex hero. The author develops his character so well and reveals finely the vulnerability hidden behind his facade. Effie is his perfect alter ego: being strong, stubborn, compassionate, and a light for his dark side.
The story displayed just the right balance of dark intrigue, passion, and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tristan is a complex hero. The author develops his character so well and reveals finely the vulnerability hidden behind his facade. Effie is his perfect alter ego: being strong, stubborn, compassionate, and a light for his dark side.
The story displayed just the right balance of dark intrigue, passion, and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
It takes courage to look beyond the veneer of a person and the front they put up. Effie saw beyond the picture her father painted of Tristan and that will be his salvation. Once you start a Barbara Russell book, you are hook. Why am I surprised about this one? I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2026
In typical Barbara Russell fashion, she had me hooked from the start. Effie: unrelentingly kind. Tristen: brooding, a little dark. I loved their chemistry. The plot was excellent; I could so vividly picture the choices each of them had to make. Gah. Loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2026
An interesting story about revenge, sabotage, redemption, addiction, attraction and love Tristan is consumed by his need to seek vengeance for the destruction of his railway company and Ellie is the daughter of the man he believes is responsible. Can Ellie reach him before he destroys them both in his request for revenge.
Review of advance copy
An enjoyable read of the love between a smart and caring woman and the man with demons to grapple with. Scandals, gossips, misunderstanding, revenge will not hinder their HEA.
I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 26, 2026
I enjoyed reading this book. I was quickly pulled in and found this to be a fast read that offered a great escape. I will be watching for more books by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2026
A beautifully written story filled with every emotion possible. The characters with grip your heart and not let go even after you reach the end. Disaster, chemistry, and a roller coaster of a story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2026
Revenge or the girl…
Tristan is bent on revenge and he aims to achieve through Effie. She’s naive and doesn’t believe his dastardly deeds of revenge. Does he get revenge or the girl? He wants both.
Tristan is bent on revenge and he aims to achieve through Effie. She’s naive and doesn’t believe his dastardly deeds of revenge. Does he get revenge or the girl? He wants both.
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