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Grantham #1
A Season To Be Sinful
USA Today bestselling author Jo Goodman's sweeping new novel brings to life a tale of courage, desire, and dangerous secrets--as an intrepid beauty discovers that love and trust are two sides of the same coin. . .Wyatt Grantham, Viscount Sheridan, is stunned to find three young boys at his door, demanding he right the wrongs of an incident that occurred earlier that evening when he thwarted a determined thief. When he discovers his wily pickpocket is a woman, now gravely injured, he takes his flame-haired attacker under his wing. Clearly, Sheridan's new "guest" is lady of quality. So how did she become a common street thief? He finds himself irresistibly drawn the to clever, cheeky Lily, and determined to unlock her mysteries. . .
The five years since she left the care of the French convent have been a nightmare for Lily. Her secrets are dangerous--as is the powerful man determined to find her.The handsome Viscount is clearly a gentleman with secrets of his own, but staying with him could mean the difference between life and death for Lily. With each passing day, her handsome host turns Lily's convalescence into an increasingly sensual escape. Now her greatest challenge may be imagining anything less than a future in his arms. . .
The five years since she left the care of the French convent have been a nightmare for Lily. Her secrets are dangerous--as is the powerful man determined to find her.The handsome Viscount is clearly a gentleman with secrets of his own, but staying with him could mean the difference between life and death for Lily. With each passing day, her handsome host turns Lily's convalescence into an increasingly sensual escape. Now her greatest challenge may be imagining anything less than a future in his arms. . .
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2005
39 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
About the author
Jo Goodman
60 books479 followersTo find characters to illustrate my first family saga, I cut out models from the Sears catalogue. I was in fourth grade, but it was a start. In seventh grade I wrote a melodrama about two orphan sisters, one of whom was pregnant. There was also a story about a runaway girl with the unlikely name of Strawberry and one about mistaken identities and an evil blind date. My supportive, but vaguely concerned parents, sighed with relief when I announced I was going to write children's books. They bought me an electric typewriter and crossed their fingers, but somehow PASSION'S BRIDE came out. No one was really surprised.
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry and some notion that I would do marine research. Years of competitive swimming didn't help me anticipate seasickness. A career change seemed in order. I began working with adolescents and families, first as a childcare worker and later, after graduating from West Virginia University with a master's degree in counseling, as a therapist. I am currently the executive director of a child caring/mental health agency and find my work and my writing often compliment each other. One grounds me in reality and the other offers a break from it.
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry and some notion that I would do marine research. Years of competitive swimming didn't help me anticipate seasickness. A career change seemed in order. I began working with adolescents and families, first as a childcare worker and later, after graduating from West Virginia University with a master's degree in counseling, as a therapist. I am currently the executive director of a child caring/mental health agency and find my work and my writing often compliment each other. One grounds me in reality and the other offers a break from it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 4, 2011
Wow! What a great read!! A wonderful story, and so beautifully told that I read it a little more slowly at times so I could savor it, rather than rushing to the ending as I often do. For some reason, the title led me to think that this would be a lighthearted read, but it was anything but.
The prologue has Lily growing up in a French abbey to age 16, when a man comes to request her services as governess to his daughters. Both Lily & Sr. Mary Joseph are convinced he is a very bad man, so the nun helps Lily escape to find her way to safety in London. Chapter 1 has her living in the slums of Holborn, keeping watch over 3 young street scoundrels, so we know right away that her escape was not completely successful, although it takes a while to learn the full story of what happened to her in the elapsed five years.
Than Lily saves Lord Sheridan from a knife attack, becoming gravely wounded in the attempt. Since the 3 scoundrels think her injury is Sherry's fault, they show up at his house demanding that he save her. Sherry calls his own physician and ultimately has Lily and her 3 young scamps moved into his house and then to his country estate, where the two of them learn to like and then slowly trust each other, since both of them have serious secrets in their pasts. It is this slow growth of trust - especially on Lily's part - and the growing of like into serious love that make this such a a beautifully compelling read.
The prologue has Lily growing up in a French abbey to age 16, when a man comes to request her services as governess to his daughters. Both Lily & Sr. Mary Joseph are convinced he is a very bad man, so the nun helps Lily escape to find her way to safety in London. Chapter 1 has her living in the slums of Holborn, keeping watch over 3 young street scoundrels, so we know right away that her escape was not completely successful, although it takes a while to learn the full story of what happened to her in the elapsed five years.
Than Lily saves Lord Sheridan from a knife attack, becoming gravely wounded in the attempt. Since the 3 scoundrels think her injury is Sherry's fault, they show up at his house demanding that he save her. Sherry calls his own physician and ultimately has Lily and her 3 young scamps moved into his house and then to his country estate, where the two of them learn to like and then slowly trust each other, since both of them have serious secrets in their pasts. It is this slow growth of trust - especially on Lily's part - and the growing of like into serious love that make this such a a beautifully compelling read.
October 9, 2020
1 Estrellita. Lo siento mucho pero éste libro no me ha gustado nada, me ha parecido un petardazo y un rollo infumable que no acababa nunca.
Una pena, porque la sinopsis prometía y la historia podía haber sido buena, pero mi problema con este libro es que no he conseguido conectar con él ni con la historia. Contra ello tengo que ha sido un libro demasiado largo, le sobraban como 200 páginas y la escenas también era demasiado largas y daban vueltas a lo mismo, muy reiterativo.
En "Una primavera para pecar" podemos pensar que tenemos una historia típica Regencia, pero la verdad es que ha tenido la sordidez de novelas que se publicaban de éste período hace 30 años. Con eso no quiero decir que sea malo, al revés, que no ha explotado el potencial que podía haber dado.
Los protagonistas son Lily y el vizconde Sheridan. Lily es una joven criada en un convento francés, que escapa de un futuro incierto cuando un noble inglés se interesa en ella para que sea la institutriz de sus hijos. Y años después, Lily aparece en Londres viviendo en los bajos fondos, vistiendo como un muchacho y desplumando bolsillos.
Lord Sheridan, o Sherry, acude con su amante del momento al teatro de Drury Lane en plena temporada londinense y a su salida alguien lo ataca haciendo parecer que es un robo y acaba con una joven vestida de muchacho herida de una puñalada.
En este incidente Lily resulta herida, y tres niños o pilluelos de las calles que viven con ella, le piden ayuda a Sherry al haber sido él el supuesto causante del estado de Lily. Cuando Sherry acude al lecho de Lily en seguida toma bajo su responsabilidad a la joven y a los tres pilluelos y los lleva con él.
Será durante ésta convivencia cuando Lily y Sherry se enamoren, mientras una serie de intrigas y secretos prenden sobre nuestros personajes, por un lado, el pasado de Sherry como espía al servicio de la corona, y por otro el pasado de Lily, pues se ve en sus formas y dicción que se ha educado como una dama y no como una ladronzuela de los bajos fondos. ¿Qué fue de Lily durante los 5 años que hace que se fugó de la abadía?
Ahí radica el misterio del libro, pero la verdad es que me ha resultado algo confuso a la vez que aburrido. Y es que ésa es la palabra exacta para definir lo que me ha parecido éste libro: aburrido. Lo único que se salva del libro son los tres niños, que Sherry acaba adoptando como pupilos.
Vuelvo a decir que me parece una lástima, porque es lo primero que leo de Jo Goodman y la tenía como una de las grandes de la Regencia, pero ha resultado ser un libro más, con la pega de que ha sido demasiado largo (524 páginas), pocos capítulos y demasiado largos, con escenas que igualmente pecaban de ser demasiado extensas, daba la sensación de que escenas que podían durar 20 páginas acababan teniendo 50, y decía: "éste rollo no acaba nunca". Lo siento, pero como lectora no ha mantenido mi atención.
No sé si volveré a leer algo más de Jo Goodman, pero si lo hago me tendrá que venir muy bien recomendado, pues éste primer acercamiento no ha sido nada bueno.
Una pena, porque la sinopsis prometía y la historia podía haber sido buena, pero mi problema con este libro es que no he conseguido conectar con él ni con la historia. Contra ello tengo que ha sido un libro demasiado largo, le sobraban como 200 páginas y la escenas también era demasiado largas y daban vueltas a lo mismo, muy reiterativo.
En "Una primavera para pecar" podemos pensar que tenemos una historia típica Regencia, pero la verdad es que ha tenido la sordidez de novelas que se publicaban de éste período hace 30 años. Con eso no quiero decir que sea malo, al revés, que no ha explotado el potencial que podía haber dado.
Los protagonistas son Lily y el vizconde Sheridan. Lily es una joven criada en un convento francés, que escapa de un futuro incierto cuando un noble inglés se interesa en ella para que sea la institutriz de sus hijos. Y años después, Lily aparece en Londres viviendo en los bajos fondos, vistiendo como un muchacho y desplumando bolsillos.
Lord Sheridan, o Sherry, acude con su amante del momento al teatro de Drury Lane en plena temporada londinense y a su salida alguien lo ataca haciendo parecer que es un robo y acaba con una joven vestida de muchacho herida de una puñalada.
En este incidente Lily resulta herida, y tres niños o pilluelos de las calles que viven con ella, le piden ayuda a Sherry al haber sido él el supuesto causante del estado de Lily. Cuando Sherry acude al lecho de Lily en seguida toma bajo su responsabilidad a la joven y a los tres pilluelos y los lleva con él.
Será durante ésta convivencia cuando Lily y Sherry se enamoren, mientras una serie de intrigas y secretos prenden sobre nuestros personajes, por un lado, el pasado de Sherry como espía al servicio de la corona, y por otro el pasado de Lily, pues se ve en sus formas y dicción que se ha educado como una dama y no como una ladronzuela de los bajos fondos. ¿Qué fue de Lily durante los 5 años que hace que se fugó de la abadía?
Ahí radica el misterio del libro, pero la verdad es que me ha resultado algo confuso a la vez que aburrido. Y es que ésa es la palabra exacta para definir lo que me ha parecido éste libro: aburrido. Lo único que se salva del libro son los tres niños, que Sherry acaba adoptando como pupilos.
Vuelvo a decir que me parece una lástima, porque es lo primero que leo de Jo Goodman y la tenía como una de las grandes de la Regencia, pero ha resultado ser un libro más, con la pega de que ha sido demasiado largo (524 páginas), pocos capítulos y demasiado largos, con escenas que igualmente pecaban de ser demasiado extensas, daba la sensación de que escenas que podían durar 20 páginas acababan teniendo 50, y decía: "éste rollo no acaba nunca". Lo siento, pero como lectora no ha mantenido mi atención.
No sé si volveré a leer algo más de Jo Goodman, pero si lo hago me tendrá que venir muy bien recomendado, pues éste primer acercamiento no ha sido nada bueno.
September 15, 2015
The title of this book is one of the most misleading titles in this genre. What might you imagine when you look at the cover and read the title? I brought this on vacation with me because I thought it would be lighthearted and flirtatious, but you should know that it's definitely not.
The way that Jo Goodman writes this story is that she divulges small amounts of story bit by bit, so we slowly get to know the secrets of our main characters. I won't ruin the story and tell you what happens, other than this story deals with a very serious subject and it's definitely NOT lighthearted. So fair warning about that.
This subject in particular is not my favorite and I often have a hard time reading these stories, but overall this book was sweet. The little boys were the highlight for me, and the hero and heroine were both very cute together. But this book wasn't perfect by any means and it's not the first Jo Goodman book that I would recommend. There were some glaring plot holes and parts that didn't quite fit together, I also got a little frustrated and wanted it to move along more.
Anyway, if you're interested in the more dramatic/serious historical romances - then this one fits the bill. Just don't judge this book by it's cover or you'll be sorely disappointed.
The way that Jo Goodman writes this story is that she divulges small amounts of story bit by bit, so we slowly get to know the secrets of our main characters. I won't ruin the story and tell you what happens, other than this story deals with a very serious subject and it's definitely NOT lighthearted. So fair warning about that.
This subject in particular is not my favorite and I often have a hard time reading these stories, but overall this book was sweet. The little boys were the highlight for me, and the hero and heroine were both very cute together. But this book wasn't perfect by any means and it's not the first Jo Goodman book that I would recommend. There were some glaring plot holes and parts that didn't quite fit together, I also got a little frustrated and wanted it to move along more.
Anyway, if you're interested in the more dramatic/serious historical romances - then this one fits the bill. Just don't judge this book by it's cover or you'll be sorely disappointed.
August 16, 2020
An all right effort by Jo Goodman but I much preferred The Price of Desire as an example of the author's work.
What was good: The motivation of Woodridge the OTP villain, Lily the heroine with the horrific backstory, Sherry the progressive hero and the precocious kids.
I really liked what Goodman did with Woodridge. Woodridge is a misogynist who gets off on dominating women. His wife literally killed herself because he was "done" with her, and his obsession with Lily is because she, uh, doesn't think he's all that and runs away from him every second she gets. I hate neutered villains; the last Suzanne Enoch story I read the villain was supposedly a big bad libertine who once threatened the heroine that they would do doggy on their wedding night. I really enjoyed Woodridge because he was a piece of s**t.
I did not sense much passion between Lily and Sherry but I liked them together. From what I gather, Goodman likes her heroines with a dark back story and it gets dark. I enjoy the darkness because Goodman never makes her heroines weak, suffering martyrs but resilient survivors. The kids were great too. They provided excellent comic relief, so I'm not going to complain that their acceptance into the viscount's world was sweet and easy.
Some reviewers have noted the dialogue seems try-hard, and I agree that elegant-sounding words were used but there was no real wit, only a wooden effect. Woodridge is also a problem. There is such a thing as too many coincidences and Woodridge is a prime example. Woodridge could have been 2 out of 3 things that he turned out to be. Personally, I think his connection with Sherry took the cake, and it made Sherry's past really come out of left field since romances typically drop anvil-sized hints every other chapter. Not that I appreciate having clues condescendingly peppered on every page, but the occasional tantalizing clue livens up the reader engagement. The absence of any here proved to be a problem because it made Sherry's past feel random, once revealed.
Overall, don't read this if you've got other things to read. I purchased the second book in the series when I got A Season to Be Sinful (which, by the way, is one of the worst titles for this story because it is absolutely meaningless. This cover screams Christmas.) so I am plodding along.
What was good: The motivation of Woodridge the OTP villain, Lily the heroine with the horrific backstory, Sherry the progressive hero and the precocious kids.
I really liked what Goodman did with Woodridge. Woodridge is a misogynist who gets off on dominating women. His wife literally killed herself because he was "done" with her, and his obsession with Lily is because she, uh, doesn't think he's all that and runs away from him every second she gets. I hate neutered villains; the last Suzanne Enoch story I read the villain was supposedly a big bad libertine who once threatened the heroine that they would do doggy on their wedding night. I really enjoyed Woodridge because he was a piece of s**t.
I did not sense much passion between Lily and Sherry but I liked them together. From what I gather, Goodman likes her heroines with a dark back story and it gets dark. I enjoy the darkness because Goodman never makes her heroines weak, suffering martyrs but resilient survivors. The kids were great too. They provided excellent comic relief, so I'm not going to complain that their acceptance into the viscount's world was sweet and easy.
Some reviewers have noted the dialogue seems try-hard, and I agree that elegant-sounding words were used but there was no real wit, only a wooden effect. Woodridge is also a problem. There is such a thing as too many coincidences and Woodridge is a prime example. Woodridge could have been 2 out of 3 things that he turned out to be. Personally, I think his connection with Sherry took the cake, and it made Sherry's past really come out of left field since romances typically drop anvil-sized hints every other chapter. Not that I appreciate having clues condescendingly peppered on every page, but the occasional tantalizing clue livens up the reader engagement. The absence of any here proved to be a problem because it made Sherry's past feel random, once revealed.
Overall, don't read this if you've got other things to read. I purchased the second book in the series when I got A Season to Be Sinful (which, by the way, is one of the worst titles for this story because it is absolutely meaningless. This cover screams Christmas.) so I am plodding along.
April 22, 2011
Maybe it was a case of right thing at the right time, but I really really enjoyed this book. I found the characters to be complex and interesting, and I enjoyed the story of them coming together. I loved the scoundrels, and Sherry's family. All around, it was a fun time.
I would only criticize that things came together too neatly in the end. I thought it was a little too perfect when we found out that I was perhaps also a hair disappointed that I could see that ending coming from 10 miles away.
But all in all, that didn't really inhibit my enjoyment of the story, because for me it was entirely character-driven, and they worked for me. I think I am becoming a Jo Goodman fan. :)
I would only criticize that things came together too neatly in the end. I thought it was a little too perfect when we found out that I was perhaps also a hair disappointed that I could see that ending coming from 10 miles away.
But all in all, that didn't really inhibit my enjoyment of the story, because for me it was entirely character-driven, and they worked for me. I think I am becoming a Jo Goodman fan. :)
July 29, 2024
I'm a bit conflicted about this book. I adore Ms. Goodman's books, especially her westerns—they're fantastic. However, this book didn't quite showcase her true talents. One thing I truly love about her writing is her ability to create unconventional plots with unexpected twists and turns. While this book includes those elements, the plot holes are quite obvious, which detracts from the overall story.
The narrative is quite dark ( most of her books are - most of the main characters have a history of abuse), but this particular story disturbed me greatly. Lily and Sherry's first almost sexual encounter was especially upsetting.
If you're new to Ms. Goodman's work, I recommend skipping her Regency novels and starting with her westerns. She's a great author, and it would be a shame to miss out on her books based solely on this one. I bought this book at a bargain on Amazon US—three books for $0.99—so I can't complain too much. My first book of hers was If His Kiss Is Wicked, and I adored it. I'm not sure if I'll read One Forbidden Evening yet; I might save it for when I'm in a particular mood. So, this book only gets 3 stars from me.
I'm not sure who chose the title, as it has nothing to do with the story. I feel that her titles and covers have always been underwhelming, making the books seem less interesting than they actually are.
The narrative is quite dark ( most of her books are - most of the main characters have a history of abuse), but this particular story disturbed me greatly. Lily and Sherry's first almost sexual encounter was especially upsetting.
If you're new to Ms. Goodman's work, I recommend skipping her Regency novels and starting with her westerns. She's a great author, and it would be a shame to miss out on her books based solely on this one. I bought this book at a bargain on Amazon US—three books for $0.99—so I can't complain too much. My first book of hers was If His Kiss Is Wicked, and I adored it. I'm not sure if I'll read One Forbidden Evening yet; I might save it for when I'm in a particular mood. So, this book only gets 3 stars from me.
I'm not sure who chose the title, as it has nothing to do with the story. I feel that her titles and covers have always been underwhelming, making the books seem less interesting than they actually are.
July 25, 2016
I liked this regency romance. I'm a fan of Jo Goodman's historical romance so I suppose it's not too much of a surprise that I find I like her regency. She writes good characters. And I also appreciate that
August 11, 2015
Yeah, I've been searchin'
A-a searchin'
Oh, yeah, searchin' every which a-way
Yeah, yeah
Oh, yeah, searchin'
I'm searchin'
Searchin' every which a-way
Yeah, yeah"
Hard to believe, but I ran out of books to read. Well, let me rephrase that. I ran out of books I wanted to read. Started some, but them down - not in the mood for others - some are tooooo emotional, tooooo tortured, I just have to be in the right mood to pick some of them up (can you say Mary Balogh?) So, I've been looking for some which I might have overlooked. Maybe there's an author out there I gave up on, or for some reason just never picked up. Well, I found me some and I picked them based on some high high highly ranked reviews. One of them I picked was Jo Goodman's A Season To Be Sinful. I don't believe I've ever read one of her books, although one of her covers looks familiar, which doesn't really mean anything. And, Ye-Haw, she writes westerns - not really my cup of tea. So, this will be my first Jo Goodman.
When this story begins, our hero, Alexander Grantham, Viscount Sheridan, aka Sherry, is strolling through the park with his soon to be ex-mistress. He is in the process of ending their affair, so he is a tad bit distracted. He does not see the three small pickpockets headed his way, nor does he see the guy with the knife headed his way. Not to worry, someone sees the guy with the knife. Lucky for Sherry, unlucky for our plucky heroine Lily. Lily has been keeping an eye on the three pickpockets, spots the knife guy and shields Sherry from the plunge met for him, injuring herself in the process. Havoc ensues in the process, Lily is rushed back to the London slums by her pickpockets-in-training boys, Pinch, Dash, and Midge. Sherry is left wondering what just happened.
Days later Lily is dying from her wounds, so her "boys" Pinch, Dash, and Midge go get Sherry and insist that he save her. Sherry is willing to do so, because he believes Lily may have some knowledge as to who might be trying to murder him. Once Lily regains consciousness they agree to form a partnership of sorts. Both Sherry and Lily have secrets, pain and are full of angst, but the woe-is-me feeling was not overwhelming in this book. In fact, there were numerous moments of fun with a couple of really sweet, poignant times thrown in just to make this story fascinating.
While Sherry and Lily were both well developed characters who were both quite interesting and I loved watching them together, it is the three supporting characters of Pinch, Dash, and Midge which bring this book to life. Whether these three hooligans are on their own or whether they are adding to the characters of Sherry and Lily, it doesn't matter because they are a force to be reckoned with. It was a treat to watch them interact with Lily - the four of them together were a true family. There was also some amazing writing when the three boys became part of Sherry's world. These three characters have to be some of my favorite secondary people this year and they are also some of the best children I've seen in a book for a long time.
Overall, I was glad I chose this story to read. It was a true delight. It wasn't perfect, but it was pretty darn close. I highly recommend that if you haven't read A Season to be Sinful that you don't wait any longer. Go ahead pick it up and enjoy!
A-a searchin'
Oh, yeah, searchin' every which a-way
Yeah, yeah
Oh, yeah, searchin'
I'm searchin'
Searchin' every which a-way
Yeah, yeah"
Hard to believe, but I ran out of books to read. Well, let me rephrase that. I ran out of books I wanted to read. Started some, but them down - not in the mood for others - some are tooooo emotional, tooooo tortured, I just have to be in the right mood to pick some of them up (can you say Mary Balogh?) So, I've been looking for some which I might have overlooked. Maybe there's an author out there I gave up on, or for some reason just never picked up. Well, I found me some and I picked them based on some high high highly ranked reviews. One of them I picked was Jo Goodman's A Season To Be Sinful. I don't believe I've ever read one of her books, although one of her covers looks familiar, which doesn't really mean anything. And, Ye-Haw, she writes westerns - not really my cup of tea. So, this will be my first Jo Goodman.
When this story begins, our hero, Alexander Grantham, Viscount Sheridan, aka Sherry, is strolling through the park with his soon to be ex-mistress. He is in the process of ending their affair, so he is a tad bit distracted. He does not see the three small pickpockets headed his way, nor does he see the guy with the knife headed his way. Not to worry, someone sees the guy with the knife. Lucky for Sherry, unlucky for our plucky heroine Lily. Lily has been keeping an eye on the three pickpockets, spots the knife guy and shields Sherry from the plunge met for him, injuring herself in the process. Havoc ensues in the process, Lily is rushed back to the London slums by her pickpockets-in-training boys, Pinch, Dash, and Midge. Sherry is left wondering what just happened.
Days later Lily is dying from her wounds, so her "boys" Pinch, Dash, and Midge go get Sherry and insist that he save her. Sherry is willing to do so, because he believes Lily may have some knowledge as to who might be trying to murder him. Once Lily regains consciousness they agree to form a partnership of sorts. Both Sherry and Lily have secrets, pain and are full of angst, but the woe-is-me feeling was not overwhelming in this book. In fact, there were numerous moments of fun with a couple of really sweet, poignant times thrown in just to make this story fascinating.
While Sherry and Lily were both well developed characters who were both quite interesting and I loved watching them together, it is the three supporting characters of Pinch, Dash, and Midge which bring this book to life. Whether these three hooligans are on their own or whether they are adding to the characters of Sherry and Lily, it doesn't matter because they are a force to be reckoned with. It was a treat to watch them interact with Lily - the four of them together were a true family. There was also some amazing writing when the three boys became part of Sherry's world. These three characters have to be some of my favorite secondary people this year and they are also some of the best children I've seen in a book for a long time.
Overall, I was glad I chose this story to read. It was a true delight. It wasn't perfect, but it was pretty darn close. I highly recommend that if you haven't read A Season to be Sinful that you don't wait any longer. Go ahead pick it up and enjoy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2017
A Season to be SinfulA Season to be Sinful was published not long after the Compass Club series and there are so many similarities and patterns here that I hesitate to give this an "A" rating just on the basis of standardization alone. If I had read this book first though, I would have completely loved it.
Some of the standby Goodman elements are here and luckily the ones I tend to like. Sherry is a fitting hero in that he's handsome, wealthy, smart, and compassionate to children and women, all the while hiding a dark past that makes him decidedly enigmatic. He does what Goodman's best heroes do, which is to provide comfort, protection and assistance to his beleaguered woman, and all without overstepping her rights to defend herself and her independence. Once Sherry and Lily really come together they are a dynamic force. Lily is a victim of sexual abuse, like many of Goodman's heroines, but she's also not completely victimized by the past and always focuses on her own survival as well as caring for others in need. I had some brief qualms about Lily's ability to push past the effects of sexual violence so quickly once she fell in love, but I didn't allow those to stop me from enjoying the romance here. I also had some reservations about the sheer ubiquity of the villain in that he's everywhere and involved in so many various plots, not to mention so over-the-top dastardly. How is it possible for one man to have his hand in everyone's backstory? After some eye rolling, I decided to let that go as well. Still, Lily & Sherry are among my favorite Goodman characters, and this is a compelling read.
Some of the standby Goodman elements are here and luckily the ones I tend to like. Sherry is a fitting hero in that he's handsome, wealthy, smart, and compassionate to children and women, all the while hiding a dark past that makes him decidedly enigmatic. He does what Goodman's best heroes do, which is to provide comfort, protection and assistance to his beleaguered woman, and all without overstepping her rights to defend herself and her independence. Once Sherry and Lily really come together they are a dynamic force. Lily is a victim of sexual abuse, like many of Goodman's heroines, but she's also not completely victimized by the past and always focuses on her own survival as well as caring for others in need. I had some brief qualms about Lily's ability to push past the effects of sexual violence so quickly once she fell in love, but I didn't allow those to stop me from enjoying the romance here. I also had some reservations about the sheer ubiquity of the villain in that he's everywhere and involved in so many various plots, not to mention so over-the-top dastardly. How is it possible for one man to have his hand in everyone's backstory? After some eye rolling, I decided to let that go as well. Still, Lily & Sherry are among my favorite Goodman characters, and this is a compelling read.
November 30, 2016
First thing, the title has absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with the book.
I'm feeling positive there was some mistake in the printing presses, and the cover got swapped.
You might feel inclined to think you're getting into a light, witty, steamy romantic comedy. Think again. And again.
While there is hotness in those pages, there is nothing light about the theme.
It is QUITE dark, and unsettling. Not bad, mind you. Just not what you're lead to expect.
Setting aside the misleading title, it's a good read. There a few loose ends and plot holes, but nothing mayor. It's actually an interesting story, deep, and filled with some passionate and loyal but damaged people, getting together and healing each other.
If you can handle some darkness, and a peek into some really disturbing nastiness (quite real, and happening everyday somewhere in the world) then by all means give it a try.
I'm feeling positive there was some mistake in the printing presses, and the cover got swapped.
You might feel inclined to think you're getting into a light, witty, steamy romantic comedy. Think again. And again.
While there is hotness in those pages, there is nothing light about the theme.
It is QUITE dark, and unsettling. Not bad, mind you. Just not what you're lead to expect.
Setting aside the misleading title, it's a good read. There a few loose ends and plot holes, but nothing mayor. It's actually an interesting story, deep, and filled with some passionate and loyal but damaged people, getting together and healing each other.
If you can handle some darkness, and a peek into some really disturbing nastiness (quite real, and happening everyday somewhere in the world) then by all means give it a try.
Read
March 15, 2022Heroicamente me esforcé hasta el 40 %, más o menos. Luego decidí leer de través y en algún punto en torno al 55 % me dije que ni por esas.
Un aburrimiento de historia. Diálogos sosos, interminables, sobre tontás, sin chispa, sin nada de nada. Y mira que tiene un tópico que me gusta, esto de las identidades ocultas, el disfraz. Pero ni por esas. Añádele que es novela con niños y ya apaga y vámonos. En el Rincón de la novela romántica, Lady Zarek dijo: «malo y con ganas, así describo yo este "libro"». Pues eso.
¿Cómo es posible que Sybil Cook, en All About Romance, le diera una DIK A- a este libro? Vale, era 2005 cuando escribió esa review. Pero es el mismo año de Sucedió en otoño de Lisa Kleypas. Tenía cosas excelentes con las que comparar. Inexplicable. Vaya bodrio.
Un aburrimiento de historia. Diálogos sosos, interminables, sobre tontás, sin chispa, sin nada de nada. Y mira que tiene un tópico que me gusta, esto de las identidades ocultas, el disfraz. Pero ni por esas. Añádele que es novela con niños y ya apaga y vámonos. En el Rincón de la novela romántica, Lady Zarek dijo: «malo y con ganas, así describo yo este "libro"». Pues eso.
¿Cómo es posible que Sybil Cook, en All About Romance, le diera una DIK A- a este libro? Vale, era 2005 cuando escribió esa review. Pero es el mismo año de Sucedió en otoño de Lisa Kleypas. Tenía cosas excelentes con las que comparar. Inexplicable. Vaya bodrio.
July 22, 2013
This book was my debut to Jo Goodman and it wasn't half bad.
I was particularly charmed by the cast of characters (although they had their faults) but we shall get to that.
Viscount Sheridan, or better known as Sherry, is lucky to be alive. He doesn't know who he should thank or blame for the matter since the stabbing incident that occurred in Covent Garden left him mysteriously without a lead. However, Sherry learns all you must do is ask and you shall receive because it doesn't take long for three young ruffians to be on his doorstep demanding his help for the alleged criminal.
Shockingly, the 'criminal' is a red-haired beauty that has the speech of an educated lady. Naturally Sherry takes the woman, known as Miss Rose (and later as Lily) under his wing as well as the scoundrels who won't seem to leave her side.
In the weeks that follow Lily's healing process, the two become rather intimate in the confines of the London and later, Granville home with only the boys (Midge, Pinch, and Dash) to keep company.
Goodman had a rather fascinating story play out between the two, including the mysterious stabbing that was discovered by readers to be doled out by an unknown third party. I still find this book to be only average in that as much as Goodman attempted to create depth with these characters' back stories, I couldn't help longing for the nuanced intricacies of Anne Mallory. There was much to sympathize with Lily, especially, but I still found the characters to be only mildly compelling.
The other aspect of this book that was a bit inferior to Anne Mallory (pray forgive me for comparing) was the actual writing style. It was rather sophisticated for a romance novel which I enjoy now and again but there were many a time it came off as forced or fake, as it was being done more for the sake of fluidity of the words rather than explicitly detailing the story. Again, I couldn't help but find my mind drawn to Mallory's effortless style of writing that is lovely in its elegance but still strikes true at the readers' emotions.
At this time, I couldn't say whether this book is enough to motivate me to pick up another Goodman novel. I suppose if I had nothing else to read bu alas! As an self-declared book worm I tend to have at least a dozen other books to read so Goodman will indeed have to wait.
I was particularly charmed by the cast of characters (although they had their faults) but we shall get to that.
Viscount Sheridan, or better known as Sherry, is lucky to be alive. He doesn't know who he should thank or blame for the matter since the stabbing incident that occurred in Covent Garden left him mysteriously without a lead. However, Sherry learns all you must do is ask and you shall receive because it doesn't take long for three young ruffians to be on his doorstep demanding his help for the alleged criminal.
Shockingly, the 'criminal' is a red-haired beauty that has the speech of an educated lady. Naturally Sherry takes the woman, known as Miss Rose (and later as Lily) under his wing as well as the scoundrels who won't seem to leave her side.
In the weeks that follow Lily's healing process, the two become rather intimate in the confines of the London and later, Granville home with only the boys (Midge, Pinch, and Dash) to keep company.
Goodman had a rather fascinating story play out between the two, including the mysterious stabbing that was discovered by readers to be doled out by an unknown third party. I still find this book to be only average in that as much as Goodman attempted to create depth with these characters' back stories, I couldn't help longing for the nuanced intricacies of Anne Mallory. There was much to sympathize with Lily, especially, but I still found the characters to be only mildly compelling.
The other aspect of this book that was a bit inferior to Anne Mallory (pray forgive me for comparing) was the actual writing style. It was rather sophisticated for a romance novel which I enjoy now and again but there were many a time it came off as forced or fake, as it was being done more for the sake of fluidity of the words rather than explicitly detailing the story. Again, I couldn't help but find my mind drawn to Mallory's effortless style of writing that is lovely in its elegance but still strikes true at the readers' emotions.
At this time, I couldn't say whether this book is enough to motivate me to pick up another Goodman novel. I suppose if I had nothing else to read bu alas! As an self-declared book worm I tend to have at least a dozen other books to read so Goodman will indeed have to wait.
July 11, 2020
I’m exhausted. Maybe I disliked this novel more after reading The Prize of Desire (link to review here). I’m just so sick of sexual assault and this particular series seems to have a lot of it. The plot was clunky, nothing happened for a good 75% of the book, and I grew tired of the romance storyline and all the twists and turns. I’m disappointed, because I really liked Jo Goodman’s IF HIS KISS IS WICKED.
December 18, 2025
If you want to read an HR that verges pretty dark — content warnings for a LOT of things — and has a relationship between a hero and heroine that takes time to build but the payoff is SO satisfying, and you add in a dash of suspense and danger? You get this book. One of my faves this year, and one that lingered with me for a while.
April 16, 2025
A Season to Be Sinful is a deeply powerful, complex dark story that shocks the senses. I’ve read some of the author’s HR Westerns and this first book in the Lady Riverdale series is so different.
The tragic tale of Lily’s early years is heartbreaking, and then she’s able with the love and support of Sheridan to heal emotionally. There are many aspects of this story that are so deeply disturbing.., it’s not a book for everyone. I found it very upsetting at times and I’ll read about anything in a HR. The writing is superb, rich prose, and plenty of explicit sex scenes. The addition of three engaging children added immensely to lighten the story… such a great counterpoint. Overall, super memorable and I loved it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The tragic tale of Lily’s early years is heartbreaking, and then she’s able with the love and support of Sheridan to heal emotionally. There are many aspects of this story that are so deeply disturbing.., it’s not a book for everyone. I found it very upsetting at times and I’ll read about anything in a HR. The writing is superb, rich prose, and plenty of explicit sex scenes. The addition of three engaging children added immensely to lighten the story… such a great counterpoint. Overall, super memorable and I loved it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 21, 2020
3.5 estrellas
July 15, 2014
I don't know...I guess I'm the minority here. I thought the premise of the book intriguing, especially the way that Lily was living in poverty protecting and watching over three boys that grew up on the mean streets of London. There was also a lot of amusing, dry wit as well. However, as a romance novel, I don't think that this really touched me emotionally as much as others have before. Like I said, there was a lot of dry, witty humor, especially between the main protagonists, but I don't know if I felt that this was enough to tie them together.
Maybe I just have a problem with the way the novel is structured as well? I don't know if it was smart of the author to start of the novel with the introduction of the man who molested Lily several years prior to the present day. I keep expecting him to pop up in the middle of the novel, but I'm already 3/4 of the way through and the only way that man really becomes an issue is through Lily's memories and her desire to protect Sherry and her boys. Like I said, I did not completely finish this book, but even if this man appeared by the end, I would feel it was very anti-climactic. The author could have introduced such an event via pockets of flashbacks throughout the book instead to give us hints to the traumatizing event.
In the end, I only stopped 3/4 of the way through because the story started to lose my interest. I felt that there was a layer between me and the emotional delivery of this novel. The only redeeming qualities of this book are the witty humor and the boys' antics. Perhaps one of these days when I am bored I'll skim through the rest of the novel just to see how it ends.
Also, I had an issue with the title of this book. Why "A Season to be Sinful"? It wasn't like this occurred during a London season, or perhaps they are thinking of nature's seasons (winter, spring, etc)??
Maybe I just have a problem with the way the novel is structured as well? I don't know if it was smart of the author to start of the novel with the introduction of the man who molested Lily several years prior to the present day. I keep expecting him to pop up in the middle of the novel, but I'm already 3/4 of the way through and the only way that man really becomes an issue is through Lily's memories and her desire to protect Sherry and her boys. Like I said, I did not completely finish this book, but even if this man appeared by the end, I would feel it was very anti-climactic. The author could have introduced such an event via pockets of flashbacks throughout the book instead to give us hints to the traumatizing event.
In the end, I only stopped 3/4 of the way through because the story started to lose my interest. I felt that there was a layer between me and the emotional delivery of this novel. The only redeeming qualities of this book are the witty humor and the boys' antics. Perhaps one of these days when I am bored I'll skim through the rest of the novel just to see how it ends.
Also, I had an issue with the title of this book. Why "A Season to be Sinful"? It wasn't like this occurred during a London season, or perhaps they are thinking of nature's seasons (winter, spring, etc)??
December 3, 2014
2.9-3.1
The POV changing with paragraphs was, in the beginning annoying, as the story progressed it just became distracting.
Lily has lived a real shitty life and the abuse she suffered .... sheesh. goodman does like to abuse her characters so I should've expected it but...again...yeesh.
Sherry is a patient, rational and intelligent man. He has also led a surprisingly dangerous life that was hinted at and really should have been explained earlier in some fashion. However, I didn't mind learning at the same time as Lily because that was a good scene in which Sherry lets his guard down completely.
The scoundrels were one of the best parts of this book and I loved Sherry's interactions with them.
I would have loved a slower build up with Sherry falling for Lily. The one time we needed a POV shift!
This book seems to have been written with a Regency/Austen bent. The whole book was written that way, not just the dialogue.
Speaking of dialogue...it was excellent. Goodman has always been good with dialogue so no complaints there.
So why such a low rating? The first hundred or so pages were incredibly unnecessary. It was slow and with Lily convalescing it seemed like a waste of a build up for both the mystery and the romance. On top of that, the romance suddenly sped up.
It was a poorly paced in my opinion.
Over all it wasn't a bad book just not the best, or even the best example of Goodman. However, if you find it in your library and you're in the mood for a recency romance (1815), go for it.
The POV changing with paragraphs was, in the beginning annoying, as the story progressed it just became distracting.
Lily has lived a real shitty life and the abuse she suffered .... sheesh. goodman does like to abuse her characters so I should've expected it but...again...yeesh.
Sherry is a patient, rational and intelligent man. He has also led a surprisingly dangerous life that was hinted at and really should have been explained earlier in some fashion. However, I didn't mind learning at the same time as Lily because that was a good scene in which Sherry lets his guard down completely.
The scoundrels were one of the best parts of this book and I loved Sherry's interactions with them.
I would have loved a slower build up with Sherry falling for Lily. The one time we needed a POV shift!
This book seems to have been written with a Regency/Austen bent. The whole book was written that way, not just the dialogue.
Speaking of dialogue...it was excellent. Goodman has always been good with dialogue so no complaints there.
So why such a low rating? The first hundred or so pages were incredibly unnecessary. It was slow and with Lily convalescing it seemed like a waste of a build up for both the mystery and the romance. On top of that, the romance suddenly sped up.
It was a poorly paced in my opinion.
Over all it wasn't a bad book just not the best, or even the best example of Goodman. However, if you find it in your library and you're in the mood for a recency romance (1815), go for it.
January 24, 2012
This is the best historical romance I've read in awhile, I loved it.
Sherri is such an interesting hero. Regency heroes definitely have types among them. There's the uptight, tightly wound Mr. Darcy ones with the secret hearts of gold. There's the physically or mentally tortured ones despite their money and titles. There's the self made men fighting for their place in a classist society.
Sherri is none of these things. He's spoiled, factitious, sarcastic, uptight. He's not a bad man, but he's a product of his environment and upbringing.
When he meets Lily, a woman surviving on the streets of Victorian England, when she takes a knife wound for him by accident when he is attacked on the street.
He takes her to his mansion for her to recover, along with three street urchin children (not hers) that she looks after the best she can. They all find their way into his heart and he really transforms and becomes alive.
The only reason that this book doesn't get 5 stars is that Lily suffered from years of repeated sexual victimization, and after a confession to and a Sherri holding her was able to physically "get over it" immediately which I thought was so unrealistic and took me out of the story.
Besides that, loved it. Great characters, very witty dialogue, and a good plot. This is my first Jo Goodman book and I'm delighted to see that she has a large back log. If her other books are half as good as this one I have a lot of happy reading ahead of me.
Sherri is such an interesting hero. Regency heroes definitely have types among them. There's the uptight, tightly wound Mr. Darcy ones with the secret hearts of gold. There's the physically or mentally tortured ones despite their money and titles. There's the self made men fighting for their place in a classist society.
Sherri is none of these things. He's spoiled, factitious, sarcastic, uptight. He's not a bad man, but he's a product of his environment and upbringing.
When he meets Lily, a woman surviving on the streets of Victorian England, when she takes a knife wound for him by accident when he is attacked on the street.
He takes her to his mansion for her to recover, along with three street urchin children (not hers) that she looks after the best she can. They all find their way into his heart and he really transforms and becomes alive.
The only reason that this book doesn't get 5 stars is that Lily suffered from years of repeated sexual victimization, and after a confession to and a Sherri holding her was able to physically "get over it" immediately which I thought was so unrealistic and took me out of the story.
Besides that, loved it. Great characters, very witty dialogue, and a good plot. This is my first Jo Goodman book and I'm delighted to see that she has a large back log. If her other books are half as good as this one I have a lot of happy reading ahead of me.
August 24, 2017
3.5 Stars. Wow, never have I ever read a book where the first quarter (possibly third) of the book just didn't quite engage me, felt clunky, and sort of discombobulated -- only to turn it all around and come together to make a good back half, and a sweet, entertaining story! Goodman trips herself up sometimes, but she certainly has *some* tricks up her sleeves. The young scrappy orphans in the story, the 'scoundrels' as they're often called are written perfectly. Sherry winds up being a really solid hero. Lily's experiences and abuses lead to well-written dysfunction and reactions.
After a less than stellar first experience with Goodman in the form of Never Love a Lawman (which was oddly enough rated slightly higher than this book) I'm not sure what to think or where to go next with this author. I'll likely give her one more shot after this one!
After a less than stellar first experience with Goodman in the form of Never Love a Lawman (which was oddly enough rated slightly higher than this book) I'm not sure what to think or where to go next with this author. I'll likely give her one more shot after this one!
January 21, 2020
Si es que el problema de leer tanto de este género es que cuando no te encanta, ni te atrapa, el libro termina decepcionando. Y digo esto porque quizá si este libro lo hubiera leído hace 10 años me habría gustado más. Pero ahora con todo mi bagaje, con todas las autoras que me gustan, pues se me ha quedado bastante corto.
Los personajes son prototípicos y la historia en sí cumple lo justo.
No me ha gustado especialmente la relación de pareja, en algunos momentos era lento, otras veces iban demasiado rápido, las escenas de cama no me han cuadrado con la trama y la primera vez ha sido bastante fría y poco agradable. Que vale que el tema que trata es truculento, pero había otras muchas formas de afrontarlo.
Es de esos libros que no se quedan en tu memoria.
No lo recomiendo, hay mucho del género más interesante.
Los personajes son prototípicos y la historia en sí cumple lo justo.
No me ha gustado especialmente la relación de pareja, en algunos momentos era lento, otras veces iban demasiado rápido, las escenas de cama no me han cuadrado con la trama y la primera vez ha sido bastante fría y poco agradable. Que vale que el tema que trata es truculento, pero había otras muchas formas de afrontarlo.
Es de esos libros que no se quedan en tu memoria.
No lo recomiendo, hay mucho del género más interesante.
February 21, 2017
This book had surprising depth that I was not expecting. I do not think the title fits the book AT ALL. There were parts of the mystery that I didn't follow, and parts that I didn't find necessary to the plot of the story. So perhaps there are some plot changes, but the book still captured me. I loved Lily as a character and her desire to protect those around her. She seemed to love unconditionally, thus wanting the best for the scoundrels. It made me like her even more The book addresses a deep subject matter (I don't want to ruin it, so I won't tell you what) and approaches it very well. All in all, I really enjoyed it, but the few plot frustrations kept me from giving it a 5 star rating.
February 24, 2017
Lily has been running from secrets from her past and has ended up on the streets for her trouble. Now in an unexpected encounter with Alexander Grantham, Viscount Sheridan, she has to rely on him to save her life from a stab wound. Thanks in part to her three little scoundrels they learn just what the encounter was really about.
I think I liked this book so much because of the three little scoundrels. They really made the book and contributed in helping both Lily and Sheridan's characters grow.
I think I liked this book so much because of the three little scoundrels. They really made the book and contributed in helping both Lily and Sheridan's characters grow.
November 25, 2015
This book really kept me reading. Actually, I had begun it months ago and put it down after about ten pages. However, I always read at least 10% of a book and after I picked it up again it kept me glued. I especially liked the three street urchins who were secondary characters. They added a lot of comic relief to the story. I also liked that the heroine was not immediately forthcoming about her past. The hero was a great guy and I believed in their HEA.
November 21, 2008
I have always been fond of Goodman's books, so it is't too surprising I found "A Season to be Sinful" a rather interesting read. The female lead, Lilly, is a wily pickpocket who, through a rather entertaining set of circumstances, falls under the care of the very Viscount she had 'accousted.' The plot is very unique and the writing, of course, is exceptional.
November 2, 2014
more like 3.75 rounded up to 4. It would have been a solid 4 if were it not for the fact that the book had the tendency to meander occasionally, also there were one or two plot points that were completely unnecessary and just served to stretch the story further.
March 10, 2016
3.5 out of 5 stars
April 4, 2019
The boys were the book for me.
March 5, 2019
This was an interesting read, certainly wasn't what I was expecting.
Lily fled the French abbey where she had grown up, only to end up fleeing for her life due to an unexpected incident . Somehow Lily ended up in the slums of Holborn five years later, somehow injured and with 3 young scoundrels dutifully keeping watch over her. I did appreciate how we slowly get to hear Lily's story and what happened to her over the 5 years since fleeing the abbey. Lily is definitely a strong one, to not only have survived some horrible stuff but to be so optimistic and caring of others.
Lord Sheridan was definitely surprised and curious about Lily, especially once he realizes that someone is out to harm him and Lily isn't what he thought. I do like how Sherry tries his best to protect Lily and the 3 boys, most notably the 3 boys when he realizes their intentions are quite pure despite being super mischievous around his staff. It totally shows off his soft side, the side that people don't see.
Pretty easy to see who the big bad guy is near the end. A little predictable there but overall decent story.
Lily fled the French abbey where she had grown up, only to end up fleeing for her life due to an unexpected incident . Somehow Lily ended up in the slums of Holborn five years later, somehow injured and with 3 young scoundrels dutifully keeping watch over her. I did appreciate how we slowly get to hear Lily's story and what happened to her over the 5 years since fleeing the abbey. Lily is definitely a strong one, to not only have survived some horrible stuff but to be so optimistic and caring of others.
Lord Sheridan was definitely surprised and curious about Lily, especially once he realizes that someone is out to harm him and Lily isn't what he thought. I do like how Sherry tries his best to protect Lily and the 3 boys, most notably the 3 boys when he realizes their intentions are quite pure despite being super mischievous around his staff. It totally shows off his soft side, the side that people don't see.
Pretty easy to see who the big bad guy is near the end. A little predictable there but overall decent story.
March 20, 2020
So this is a hard and easy read for me and that's why I'm giving it 5 stars. I love all the characters and the villain is the worst. But more than that the progress is really sweet. And although character development isn't really a necessity for romance there is quite a bit of it in this book. I love it a lot.
I've held on to my copy for nearly a decade and it is my most scotched tape dogged earned romance I own. I hide it where my mother cant find it and ask to borrow it. I walk past it and thumb through to a favorite part. I've read it so much I could read it backwards and it would still be one of my favorite reads of all time.
The story is NOT for the faint of heart but every dog eared girl needs a dog eared heroine to vibe with.
I've held on to my copy for nearly a decade and it is my most scotched tape dogged earned romance I own. I hide it where my mother cant find it and ask to borrow it. I walk past it and thumb through to a favorite part. I've read it so much I could read it backwards and it would still be one of my favorite reads of all time.
The story is NOT for the faint of heart but every dog eared girl needs a dog eared heroine to vibe with.
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