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The Emperors of London #4
Reckless in Pink
Like the royals for whom they were named, the Emperors of London family have enemies and rivals of their own…
As a soldier for the Crown, Dominic is charged with locating the Young Pretender to the British throne so he can be tried as a traitor. But his mission is altered when he meets Claudia Shaw, an intriguing young woman who has inherited a house of ill repute. In an effort to protect Claudia from her own recklessness, Dominic finds himself allowing the Pretender to slip away…
Claudia is one of the Emperors of London, but her family despairs of her impetuous behavior. And try as he might, the disciplined Dominic cannot quite curb her excesses. In fact, she soon drags him into her adventures—and toward a passion neither can resist. But when a deadly secret comes to light that puts their lives, and their love, at risk, Claudia won’t allow Dominic to sacrifice himself. She is determined to have him—even if it means getting the Young Pretender out of the way herself.
As a soldier for the Crown, Dominic is charged with locating the Young Pretender to the British throne so he can be tried as a traitor. But his mission is altered when he meets Claudia Shaw, an intriguing young woman who has inherited a house of ill repute. In an effort to protect Claudia from her own recklessness, Dominic finds himself allowing the Pretender to slip away…
Claudia is one of the Emperors of London, but her family despairs of her impetuous behavior. And try as he might, the disciplined Dominic cannot quite curb her excesses. In fact, she soon drags him into her adventures—and toward a passion neither can resist. But when a deadly secret comes to light that puts their lives, and their love, at risk, Claudia won’t allow Dominic to sacrifice himself. She is determined to have him—even if it means getting the Young Pretender out of the way herself.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2015
21 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Connolly
130 books311 followersI was born in Leicester, England, and lived in our cobbler’s shop with my parents and sister. It was an old house and most definitely haunted, but I didn’t find out until I left that my great uncle had hung himself in the living room! But I think our ghost might have been older than that. It was built on the site of the old Roman cemetery, and the land had been constantly inhabited, being in the centre of town. Then, when the council bought the house from us to build a road, my grandfather retired and my father went and worked for the Post Office. My mother was a sample machinist; that is, she worked with designers on the prototypes (models or samples) of garments. So I was very well dressed! We bought a relatively modern house in the country, and my mother was blissfully happy. It’s all very well living in a large old house, but it’s a dreadful task to keep it clean and warm!
My mother's side of the family are Romany gypsies, although sadly we haven't any of the old trailers that are so astonishingly beautiful. I was taught to read the Tarot cards, and I usually use two packs; the Rider pack for simple readings and the Crowley Thoth pack for the complex stuff.
I've always had an interest in the paranormal and it's been a delight to be able to put some of this into my novels.
My mother's side of the family are Romany gypsies, although sadly we haven't any of the old trailers that are so astonishingly beautiful. I was taught to read the Tarot cards, and I usually use two packs; the Rider pack for simple readings and the Crowley Thoth pack for the complex stuff.
I've always had an interest in the paranormal and it's been a delight to be able to put some of this into my novels.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 16, 2015
* I received and ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Well this was a very pleasant read. Although I didn't have the pleasure of obtaining the first three books of the series, it was ok nonetheless. I guess if i had the first three then I would have understood this one much better. Due to that fact, some things in the book was kind of confusing. Other than the few vocabulary errors here and there it was very nice indeed. I would say that it came to the level of good historical romance authors such as Judith Mcnaught and such :)
Well this was a very pleasant read. Although I didn't have the pleasure of obtaining the first three books of the series, it was ok nonetheless. I guess if i had the first three then I would have understood this one much better. Due to that fact, some things in the book was kind of confusing. Other than the few vocabulary errors here and there it was very nice indeed. I would say that it came to the level of good historical romance authors such as Judith Mcnaught and such :)
September 17, 2016
I've given this a B- at AAR, so that's 3.5 stars rounded up.
I’ve read all three of the previous books in Lynne Connolly’s Emperors of London series and enjoyed them to differing degrees. The historical setting of a troubled England in the 1750s is utilised well and the author’s understanding of the difficult political situation of the time (with the Hanoverian monarchy still looking over its shoulder at the remaining Stuart claimants to the throne) and her descriptions of the fashion and customs of the day are all very good; but there's been something missing in the romances in the last couple of books. With Reckless in Pink, however, the series has hit its stride. It’s the best book so far.
Major Viscount Dominic St. Just has served his time in the army, and, following the deaths of the cousins he regarded as “back up” heirs to his father’s earldom, has left military service in order to fulfil his duties to his title and family. But as his army service included more than standing on a battlefield waiting to be shot at, his superiors at Whitehall ask him to undertake one covert last mission for them. They have received information that Charles Stuart (the “Young” Pretender) is in London and want Dominic to spy on him and keep them apprised of his whereabouts and activities. A loyalist and a pragmatist, Dominic fully understands the political tightrope at present being walked by the monarchy and government and agrees to provide whatever information he can.
On his way home, he is waylaid by an acquaintance and finds himself being introduced to the man’s twin sisters, one of whom the vivacious Lady Claudia, immediately draws his attention.
Lady Claudia Shaw is a member of one of the most powerful families in the country, collectively known as the Emperors of London, staunch supporters of the monarchy and sworn enemies of the Jacobite cause. She is also a bit of a handful; at twenty-four she is unmarried and her propensity for behaving incautiously sees her frequently teetering on the brink of respectability. Dominic is immediately smitten and begins to pay court to her in earnest; one of his duties as heir to an earldom involves marriage and begetting future heirs, and here is a woman who is both suitable and tempting.
The attraction between them burns bright until Dominic makes a discovery that changes his entire perspective – and may indeed change his life irrevocably. He has long been aware that his parents have been keeping secrets from him; in fact the uncovering of one of them is what sent him running from home and into the army in the first place. Confronting them with his suspicions that they are Jacobite sympathisers produces evidence of an entirely different nature, irrefutable facts about his origins that could threaten not only his own life, but those he holds most dear and many, many more.
I enjoyed this book as much for its historical elements as I did for the romance, which is developed much more strongly and at a more sensible pace than I found in the earlier books. While Dominic and Claudia do suffer a serious case of insta-lust, Ms Connolly doesn’t throw them into bed together immediately and takes her time developing their relationship and allowing the reader to get to know them as characters. Dominic is perhaps the more rounded of the pair, presented as a deeply honourable man who becomes conflicted when everything he had believed himself to be is suddenly turned upside down. But through it all, Claudia is his anchor, and even though he worries about endangering her, she convinces him that they will be stronger together and with the backing of the Emperors.
Various members of Claudia’s extended family have key roles to play here, most notably the commanding and unflappable Julius, Earl of Winterton, and Claudia’s twin brothers Val and Darius. If you haven’t read the previous books, it might be a little tricky to keep them all straight, but on the whole, this book does work as a standalone. The story is a strong one and kept me (figuratively) turning the pages as the plot thickened and I particularly enjoyed the family dynamic Ms Connelly has created and the way the Emperors all rally round to stand behind Dominic and Claudia.
My main criticism of the previous book, Danger Wears White was that it didn’t deliver when it came to the romance. Fortunately, that’s not true of Reckless in Pink which is much more satisfying on that front, and is definitely worth a look if you like a good dose of history with your romance.
I’ve read all three of the previous books in Lynne Connolly’s Emperors of London series and enjoyed them to differing degrees. The historical setting of a troubled England in the 1750s is utilised well and the author’s understanding of the difficult political situation of the time (with the Hanoverian monarchy still looking over its shoulder at the remaining Stuart claimants to the throne) and her descriptions of the fashion and customs of the day are all very good; but there's been something missing in the romances in the last couple of books. With Reckless in Pink, however, the series has hit its stride. It’s the best book so far.
Major Viscount Dominic St. Just has served his time in the army, and, following the deaths of the cousins he regarded as “back up” heirs to his father’s earldom, has left military service in order to fulfil his duties to his title and family. But as his army service included more than standing on a battlefield waiting to be shot at, his superiors at Whitehall ask him to undertake one covert last mission for them. They have received information that Charles Stuart (the “Young” Pretender) is in London and want Dominic to spy on him and keep them apprised of his whereabouts and activities. A loyalist and a pragmatist, Dominic fully understands the political tightrope at present being walked by the monarchy and government and agrees to provide whatever information he can.
On his way home, he is waylaid by an acquaintance and finds himself being introduced to the man’s twin sisters, one of whom the vivacious Lady Claudia, immediately draws his attention.
Lady Claudia Shaw is a member of one of the most powerful families in the country, collectively known as the Emperors of London, staunch supporters of the monarchy and sworn enemies of the Jacobite cause. She is also a bit of a handful; at twenty-four she is unmarried and her propensity for behaving incautiously sees her frequently teetering on the brink of respectability. Dominic is immediately smitten and begins to pay court to her in earnest; one of his duties as heir to an earldom involves marriage and begetting future heirs, and here is a woman who is both suitable and tempting.
The attraction between them burns bright until Dominic makes a discovery that changes his entire perspective – and may indeed change his life irrevocably. He has long been aware that his parents have been keeping secrets from him; in fact the uncovering of one of them is what sent him running from home and into the army in the first place. Confronting them with his suspicions that they are Jacobite sympathisers produces evidence of an entirely different nature, irrefutable facts about his origins that could threaten not only his own life, but those he holds most dear and many, many more.
I enjoyed this book as much for its historical elements as I did for the romance, which is developed much more strongly and at a more sensible pace than I found in the earlier books. While Dominic and Claudia do suffer a serious case of insta-lust, Ms Connolly doesn’t throw them into bed together immediately and takes her time developing their relationship and allowing the reader to get to know them as characters. Dominic is perhaps the more rounded of the pair, presented as a deeply honourable man who becomes conflicted when everything he had believed himself to be is suddenly turned upside down. But through it all, Claudia is his anchor, and even though he worries about endangering her, she convinces him that they will be stronger together and with the backing of the Emperors.
Various members of Claudia’s extended family have key roles to play here, most notably the commanding and unflappable Julius, Earl of Winterton, and Claudia’s twin brothers Val and Darius. If you haven’t read the previous books, it might be a little tricky to keep them all straight, but on the whole, this book does work as a standalone. The story is a strong one and kept me (figuratively) turning the pages as the plot thickened and I particularly enjoyed the family dynamic Ms Connelly has created and the way the Emperors all rally round to stand behind Dominic and Claudia.
My main criticism of the previous book, Danger Wears White was that it didn’t deliver when it came to the romance. Fortunately, that’s not true of Reckless in Pink which is much more satisfying on that front, and is definitely worth a look if you like a good dose of history with your romance.
November 6, 2015
On any given day, Claudia Shaw is causing her family strife with her reckless behavior. Her unconventional familial upbringing is at the heart of this beautiful young woman's actions. When Claudia inherits a brothel from a relative and against the better judgement, heads over to the establishment to discover its secrets, she is saved from possible ruin by a handsome stranger.
Dominic has done his time for the crown and wants out, but when he is given the task of finding the Young Pretender and gaining intelligence on the man who is a complication to the crown itself, he begrudgingly accepts the task. When Dominic appears at one of the Young Pretender's regular haunts, Dominic is outraged to find Claudia Shaw, the beauty he met on a London street, at the brothel. He extricates the nuisance from the brothel and delivers her to safety, but quickly the pair becomes embroiled in such danger and intrigue, that the whole of England go to war.
Dominic cannot deny the desires he has for Claudia and the more he becomes involved, the more his reserve faulters. Claudia is quite the troublesome minx. She is too smart for her own good and she's been indulged by her large and lively family. These indulgences only make it easier for her to fall into one predicament after another and Dominic will do what he must to steer her clear of a danger she may never recover from.
RECKLESS IN PINK by Lynne Connolly is the fourth tale in the Emperors of London series and it is a great one at that. Ms Connolly's depiction of this unstable time in Europe is intriging and well done. As a lover of history as well as romance, this combination of the two is heady and and compelling. This wonderfully written story can be read as a stand alone but with so many captivating characters who appear in each other's books, the reader would get so much more from reading the entire series.
Dominic has done his time for the crown and wants out, but when he is given the task of finding the Young Pretender and gaining intelligence on the man who is a complication to the crown itself, he begrudgingly accepts the task. When Dominic appears at one of the Young Pretender's regular haunts, Dominic is outraged to find Claudia Shaw, the beauty he met on a London street, at the brothel. He extricates the nuisance from the brothel and delivers her to safety, but quickly the pair becomes embroiled in such danger and intrigue, that the whole of England go to war.
Dominic cannot deny the desires he has for Claudia and the more he becomes involved, the more his reserve faulters. Claudia is quite the troublesome minx. She is too smart for her own good and she's been indulged by her large and lively family. These indulgences only make it easier for her to fall into one predicament after another and Dominic will do what he must to steer her clear of a danger she may never recover from.
RECKLESS IN PINK by Lynne Connolly is the fourth tale in the Emperors of London series and it is a great one at that. Ms Connolly's depiction of this unstable time in Europe is intriging and well done. As a lover of history as well as romance, this combination of the two is heady and and compelling. This wonderfully written story can be read as a stand alone but with so many captivating characters who appear in each other's books, the reader would get so much more from reading the entire series.
December 28, 2015
Another great novel about the Emperors of London series. Dominic is pretending to be someoe he is not and Claudia is trouble from the first time they meet. Claudia is reckless ad fearless and Dominic is trying to protect her from the villianess who has been stalking Dominic and his friends. He wants to stay away from her, but can't,. Do they give in to their attraction and find the woman who is stalking them. A suspenseful, edge of your seat adventure and romance. Loved it!!! Cannot wait for next one in the series.
January 8, 2016
Previously reviewed on The Good, The Bad, and The Unread:
I’ve been loving the intrigue in this series so far as the Emperors of London battle the Dankworth family for social and political supremacy, with all the underlying tensions that relate to the latter’s attempts to seize the throne via various descendants of James II. The Old Pretender may have lost interest, and the Young Pretender is far from the glamourous figurehead of ten years previously, but there are other secret children, whose identity is known to only a few, and some of whom may have a greater claim to the throne than Charles himself, if only they were to side with the Dankworths and against the crown. Enter Dominic…
Although Dominic is believed by society to be the son of the Earl and Countess of Brampton, he has known for some time that he was secretly adopted overseas and feels that that his two cousins – both now deceased – had more claim to the title than he did. Because of this he has made his name as an army officer, only returning to England after his parents failed to find any other living relatives who might inherit in the event of both Dominic’s and his father’s deaths. Six months on, Dominic is no closer to the second part of the bargain he made with his supposed parents: to marry and provide heirs prior to returning to his duties overseas, but then he is summoned to see his former commanding officer and instructed to spy on the Young Pretender, who is currently visiting London. Dominic has spied for the crown before, although he fully acknowledges this to be a less-than-honourable job for an officer, and reluctantly agrees. Before he can get to work, however, he spots a beauty buying fabric for a new dress with her twin sister.
Claudia is the wilder of the two women, while her sister is the bookish twin, but both are fiercely loyal to their immediate family and to the wider clan of the Emperors. Having met Dominic once she manages to bump into him all over town – including at a house of ill-repute in Covent Garden, which was bequeathed to her by an aunt and is also the current hiding place of the Young Pretender. Dominic rushes Claudia away, but not before she’s been spotted – a fact which could be made much of by their enemies later. Several misadventures later – mostly initiated by Claudia – Dominic and Claudia are betrothed, which makes Claudia very happy, but which is a less welcome prospect for Dominic as more details of his true parentage are brought to light.
One thing I really like about this book, besides the characters, is the emphasis placed by the good guys on the fact that, since James II was deposed, no monarch has been able to reign without the consent of the people (or at least without the consent of those at the very top of society). I’m also cheered by the mention of an Emperor who prefers his own sex and is in a highly discreet relationship with another young man of good standing. I’d like to see more of their relationship, but am uncertain of how it would fit in with this series’ overarching themes of inheritance and legitimacy. Please, though, don’t let them be brought into the spotlight by the suggestion I’ve seen in at least one other review, i.e., the setting up of a threesome.
All in all, this is almost my favourite out of the series so far (just losing out to Book 3), and I can’t wait to see how the plot will thicken in the next one.
I’ve been loving the intrigue in this series so far as the Emperors of London battle the Dankworth family for social and political supremacy, with all the underlying tensions that relate to the latter’s attempts to seize the throne via various descendants of James II. The Old Pretender may have lost interest, and the Young Pretender is far from the glamourous figurehead of ten years previously, but there are other secret children, whose identity is known to only a few, and some of whom may have a greater claim to the throne than Charles himself, if only they were to side with the Dankworths and against the crown. Enter Dominic…
Although Dominic is believed by society to be the son of the Earl and Countess of Brampton, he has known for some time that he was secretly adopted overseas and feels that that his two cousins – both now deceased – had more claim to the title than he did. Because of this he has made his name as an army officer, only returning to England after his parents failed to find any other living relatives who might inherit in the event of both Dominic’s and his father’s deaths. Six months on, Dominic is no closer to the second part of the bargain he made with his supposed parents: to marry and provide heirs prior to returning to his duties overseas, but then he is summoned to see his former commanding officer and instructed to spy on the Young Pretender, who is currently visiting London. Dominic has spied for the crown before, although he fully acknowledges this to be a less-than-honourable job for an officer, and reluctantly agrees. Before he can get to work, however, he spots a beauty buying fabric for a new dress with her twin sister.
Claudia is the wilder of the two women, while her sister is the bookish twin, but both are fiercely loyal to their immediate family and to the wider clan of the Emperors. Having met Dominic once she manages to bump into him all over town – including at a house of ill-repute in Covent Garden, which was bequeathed to her by an aunt and is also the current hiding place of the Young Pretender. Dominic rushes Claudia away, but not before she’s been spotted – a fact which could be made much of by their enemies later. Several misadventures later – mostly initiated by Claudia – Dominic and Claudia are betrothed, which makes Claudia very happy, but which is a less welcome prospect for Dominic as more details of his true parentage are brought to light.
One thing I really like about this book, besides the characters, is the emphasis placed by the good guys on the fact that, since James II was deposed, no monarch has been able to reign without the consent of the people (or at least without the consent of those at the very top of society). I’m also cheered by the mention of an Emperor who prefers his own sex and is in a highly discreet relationship with another young man of good standing. I’d like to see more of their relationship, but am uncertain of how it would fit in with this series’ overarching themes of inheritance and legitimacy. Please, though, don’t let them be brought into the spotlight by the suggestion I’ve seen in at least one other review, i.e., the setting up of a threesome.
All in all, this is almost my favourite out of the series so far (just losing out to Book 3), and I can’t wait to see how the plot will thicken in the next one.
December 13, 2015
This is Lynne 4th in a series. (The Emperors of London ) Lynne writes amazing. Stories . We have Claudia the Heroine and Dominic the Hero .
Dominic gets called into the war office for an assignment .... To find the Pretender. I can't say enough about this story . Dominic is Lord St Just . He likes his fancy clothes . Not only does Dominic know his Style but he knows his colours . He's walking down when he sees an old friend from the war . The friend says he is on his way to meet his sisters . Dominic goes with him . That is when he sees a Lady through a window and he is stopped in his tracks . He is taken by her beauty . He then realizes that the Lady is the sister of his friend . He goes in the shop. And helps Claudia Shaw pick a dress .
Lady Claudia is from a powerful family . Her family is Know as " Emperors of London. "
Lady Claudia has inherited a house from a departed Aunt . Thing is the house is in a part of London of ill repute . It's actually a brothel. Her aunt made one stipulation. Lady Claudia can't sell it . It is hers and not the family's . Claudia is eager to go see it . She sneakers out from a ball and goes to see it . Lord Dominic has been seeing the house and sees Lady Claudia go into the brothel He goes in after her . Lord Dominic has always thought that his family is with the Jacobites . That is why he went to war . Once he goes into the house he sees "the Young Pretender "as Charles is called . Lord Dominic saves Lady Claudia once again....
Lord Dominic finds out from his parents who his real parents are and it throws a spin into the story . There are a lot of surprises in this one . Once again Lynne has an amazing story . It will have you going till the end
Dominic gets called into the war office for an assignment .... To find the Pretender. I can't say enough about this story . Dominic is Lord St Just . He likes his fancy clothes . Not only does Dominic know his Style but he knows his colours . He's walking down when he sees an old friend from the war . The friend says he is on his way to meet his sisters . Dominic goes with him . That is when he sees a Lady through a window and he is stopped in his tracks . He is taken by her beauty . He then realizes that the Lady is the sister of his friend . He goes in the shop. And helps Claudia Shaw pick a dress .
Lady Claudia is from a powerful family . Her family is Know as " Emperors of London. "
Lady Claudia has inherited a house from a departed Aunt . Thing is the house is in a part of London of ill repute . It's actually a brothel. Her aunt made one stipulation. Lady Claudia can't sell it . It is hers and not the family's . Claudia is eager to go see it . She sneakers out from a ball and goes to see it . Lord Dominic has been seeing the house and sees Lady Claudia go into the brothel He goes in after her . Lord Dominic has always thought that his family is with the Jacobites . That is why he went to war . Once he goes into the house he sees "the Young Pretender "as Charles is called . Lord Dominic saves Lady Claudia once again....
Lord Dominic finds out from his parents who his real parents are and it throws a spin into the story . There are a lot of surprises in this one . Once again Lynne has an amazing story . It will have you going till the end
April 6, 2019
Good historical background. Engaging mystery storyline. Enjoyable family. Appalling writing. While the author may use a rather elaborate vocabulary at times, the prose is atrocious even for a historic romance novel and it felt most of the time like reading a rough first draft of a book rather than a properly finished novel.
August 10, 2016
As you may know. I love spy novels and this does a great job in creating a good amount of obstacles and distractions for the spy.
The romance between the two characters was great but I felt like it was a bit too quick. Like there wasn’t any flame to get it started aside from a touch of the arm and when they shared their first kiss I was just thrown aback by it. I wasn’t interested, nothing heated it up. I guess what I’m saying is that there wasn’t romance, just lust between them. It happened too quick.
Aside from that though, the two characters were great on their own. Their own minds and actions were very understanding and likable.
Dominic is the last sole heir to his title so he has to find a wife and begets an heir to his name. Not haute that but he also wants to live the simple life of a soldier and be free to do as he please, but to also be able to be himself without the constant watch and gossip from the ton. He’s brilliant and rational with no real political stands on either front but does have his opinions. He can blending into the crowd and is very aware of his surroundings, plus he plays off his reputation of a fashionable gentleman of the ton which makes him a remarkable and smart spy for the government. But beneath all of that he has a past that is not dark but shocking which got him to buy a commission in the first place.
Claudia is the wild and reckless twin that has a reputation as crazy as her flaming red-gold hair. She has been brought up to mask her wild side and play the proper gentlelady in the eyes of the ton. But of course she dreams of being herself and finding a place of her own. She’s helplessly curious about everything and is definitely a troublemaker when she sets her mind to a task. As a risk taker, her family worries for her the most out of the rest of the daughters for who will marry such a scandalous lady? She also has dreams of falling in love and being loved for who she truly is. She’s full of passion in everything she does, nothing relating to gentlelady hobbies, but that’s just a cover for how bored she is with the life she has (what Dominic thinks) so that’s as to why she acts out.
Claudia’s family over all was well done and a great comedic relief to the story. I did get confused when I first met them because they were all so childish in that scene that I wasn’t sure if any of them were old enough to marry! Ha! And then I learned one is betrothed and has twin with a questionable sexuality, one is the heir and eldest, and the other two were sisters, one being Claudia’s twin. Yup, a lively bunch they are and not a typical family either. But they’re super protective of each other and a very powerful family too.
Overall the story surrounding the mission and the sleuthing around was a great plot. The house on Hart Street was a great addition to move the mission and get Dominic and Claudia together. I did found that I liked the spying and mission point of the story better than the romance between Dominic and Claudia. But, Max, Lord Winterton, cousin of Claudia, was awesome! I’m going to have to look into his story.
December 16, 2015
The Emperors are back! And intrigue flows through this novel! Being the 4th of the series, I had prior knowledge of some of the characters in this book.
I think it could be a standalone book, but I would suggest reading them all (they are really wonderful!)
Dominic, Lord St. Just is a war hero and somewhat of a spy. His intrigues throw him into the path of an old friend who is escorting his sisters in their shopping.
This fateful meeting will change his outlook on life for he has met a beautiful woman that intrigues him greatly!
Claudia Shaw is somewhat of a harridan! She is more than happy to make mischief wherever she goes and her family knows all too well the trouble she can get
herself into. She notices Dominic and is very impressed with him.
Claudia somehow inherits a house from her Aunt, but the stipulations read that it is her house and no one can sell it.
She is very interested to see this house! Maybe this is her chance to have something of her own. She soon realizes her mistake.
She makes up an excuse to leave her brothers and go take a look at the house in question.
She is not happy to find it a bawdy house of ill repute! Of course, she does not know it is until she goes inside!
Now she is trapped. Hopefully, no one will recognize her! But someone does. Dominic has been watching the house. Watching for the Young Pretender!
His only thought as he sees her walk in is that he needs to protect her.
This was a wonderfully written well-balanced novel! I love the way Mrs. Connolly writes her scenes and dialogue!
The banter between all the characters is lively and witty. The story unfolds slowly, but not too slowly, with a bit of drama. The danger the H/H face is real
and unrelenting. Claudia's brothers, "The Emperors," are very protective as well and help figure out what and who is threatening Dominic and Claudia.
The family aspect of this story is very heartwarming. I loved the way they all interacted with each other.
All in all, a very well-rounded story that I could read over again!
I think it could be a standalone book, but I would suggest reading them all (they are really wonderful!)
Dominic, Lord St. Just is a war hero and somewhat of a spy. His intrigues throw him into the path of an old friend who is escorting his sisters in their shopping.
This fateful meeting will change his outlook on life for he has met a beautiful woman that intrigues him greatly!
Claudia Shaw is somewhat of a harridan! She is more than happy to make mischief wherever she goes and her family knows all too well the trouble she can get
herself into. She notices Dominic and is very impressed with him.
Claudia somehow inherits a house from her Aunt, but the stipulations read that it is her house and no one can sell it.
She is very interested to see this house! Maybe this is her chance to have something of her own. She soon realizes her mistake.
She makes up an excuse to leave her brothers and go take a look at the house in question.
She is not happy to find it a bawdy house of ill repute! Of course, she does not know it is until she goes inside!
Now she is trapped. Hopefully, no one will recognize her! But someone does. Dominic has been watching the house. Watching for the Young Pretender!
His only thought as he sees her walk in is that he needs to protect her.
This was a wonderfully written well-balanced novel! I love the way Mrs. Connolly writes her scenes and dialogue!
The banter between all the characters is lively and witty. The story unfolds slowly, but not too slowly, with a bit of drama. The danger the H/H face is real
and unrelenting. Claudia's brothers, "The Emperors," are very protective as well and help figure out what and who is threatening Dominic and Claudia.
The family aspect of this story is very heartwarming. I loved the way they all interacted with each other.
All in all, a very well-rounded story that I could read over again!
April 13, 2017
Review written: July 15, 2016
Star Rating: ★★★½☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☀☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
The slow burning fuse of this series hit a critical moment in the previous book to this and Reckless in Pink just burst wide open. All the hints and half-truths, the speculation and intrigue are thrown in full on.
Dominic has been a soldier and spy for the Crown for some years. He is home now, home to satisfy his parents. They want him to set up his nursery. Claudia is one of the Emperors of London - an empress in this case - and one of the most reckless. When they meet, sparks fly verbally, physically, and plot-wise.
When it turns out there is common cause between Dominic and Claudia's family, they find themselves thrown together. But it is a tenuous alliance and both Dominic and Claudia must deal with the difficulties presented. Amid mortal danger to both of them, a deep and abiding love develops which only complicates matters further.
If the previous book went from smoldering to fire, this book was a conflagration. The twists, turns, and explosions in this book give it strong action. The action is coupled with strong emotion and hints and tidbits dropped for still-to-come books. Claudia's family is a wonderful mix of interesting people and I find myself particularly curious about Darius and Livia. Val and Dru also intrigue me. As usual, Julius takes charge of the family and I continue to find my curiosity unappeased by how or why this is the case. It makes me wonder precisely why his father remains so hands-off and makes me wonder precisely why Julius chooses to undertake this task.
I have very much enjoyed the series so far. Connolly does such a good job with the history and social conventions of the time, something I value. Her characters are refreshing and interesting. I'm looking forward to the next book.
This review is ©July 2016 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★★½☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☀☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
The slow burning fuse of this series hit a critical moment in the previous book to this and Reckless in Pink just burst wide open. All the hints and half-truths, the speculation and intrigue are thrown in full on.
Dominic has been a soldier and spy for the Crown for some years. He is home now, home to satisfy his parents. They want him to set up his nursery. Claudia is one of the Emperors of London - an empress in this case - and one of the most reckless. When they meet, sparks fly verbally, physically, and plot-wise.
When it turns out there is common cause between Dominic and Claudia's family, they find themselves thrown together. But it is a tenuous alliance and both Dominic and Claudia must deal with the difficulties presented. Amid mortal danger to both of them, a deep and abiding love develops which only complicates matters further.
If the previous book went from smoldering to fire, this book was a conflagration. The twists, turns, and explosions in this book give it strong action. The action is coupled with strong emotion and hints and tidbits dropped for still-to-come books. Claudia's family is a wonderful mix of interesting people and I find myself particularly curious about Darius and Livia. Val and Dru also intrigue me. As usual, Julius takes charge of the family and I continue to find my curiosity unappeased by how or why this is the case. It makes me wonder precisely why his father remains so hands-off and makes me wonder precisely why Julius chooses to undertake this task.
I have very much enjoyed the series so far. Connolly does such a good job with the history and social conventions of the time, something I value. Her characters are refreshing and interesting. I'm looking forward to the next book.
This review is ©July 2016 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
June 9, 2016
Dominic knew he had a lack of supporters and if a scapegoat was needed he would be used and taken to prison. Dominic needed friends. When he was in the army Dominic had a complete branch of allies but here in the world as a civilian not so. Dominic was called and stopped to talk to Malton who was from a very respectable family. Dominic was considered by most to be an intellectual lesser to most and Dominic preferred it that way at least for awhile longer. The general that Dominic had been under while in the army requested Dominic to locate the Young Pretender for the government that was before he had seen Malton. The general seemed to forget Dominic was now a civilian no longer underneath the general. While with Malton he meets Lady Claudia who is Malton’s sister. Dominic is instantly attracted to Lady Claudia. Lady Claudia is twenty four but can’t become Dominic's wife as she had a fiery disposition and once Dominic had fulfilled his duties by marrying and producing an heir he would return to the army and lady Claudia would never sit at home in the country while he was away in the army. Claudia inherited a brothel from an aunt .Dominic learns the Young Pretender hiding at the brothel while Claudia was there he quickly gets her to safety and The Young Pretender escapes Dominic. Dominic knew he had been adopted overseas but then he finds out who his real parents are. Dominic does everything he can to stop Claudia from getting into serious trouble/danger from her many escapades.
I really liked this story. It was well written even though part of a series. I could understand most of the story so wasn’t a problem. I loved how independent Claudia was given the time frame this story took place. I liked the plot also. I loved the characters especially Claudia and Dominic and all the ins and outs they went through. I recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I really liked this story. It was well written even though part of a series. I could understand most of the story so wasn’t a problem. I loved how independent Claudia was given the time frame this story took place. I liked the plot also. I loved the characters especially Claudia and Dominic and all the ins and outs they went through. I recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
November 19, 2015
Even though I haven't read any of the first 3 books in the series, it did not take away the enjoyment of reading "Restless in Pink." Perhaps I would have understood the characters and family relations better, but the book mostly centered around Claudia Shaw, the wild child, of the family know as the "Emperors." Dominic St. Just is adjusting to life after leaving the army although he’s still doing some clandestine activities for the Crown. If Dominic thought he'd met his match on the battlefield, he was sorely mistaken when he meets Claudia. When the woman wants something, there is no stopping her.
Ms. Connolly does a superb job of fleshing out both Caroline and Dominic and their attraction to one another. I especially loved how independent and fearless Caroline is. Throw in intrigue, betrayal and personal attacks and the unsettling English times come to life. The history lesson surrounding the Young Pretender was presented without a heavy hand as she kept Caroline and Dominic central to the story. My only slight criticism besides a few typos was there there were a lot of minor characters to keep straight. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the other books in the series. Recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Ms. Connolly does a superb job of fleshing out both Caroline and Dominic and their attraction to one another. I especially loved how independent and fearless Caroline is. Throw in intrigue, betrayal and personal attacks and the unsettling English times come to life. The history lesson surrounding the Young Pretender was presented without a heavy hand as she kept Caroline and Dominic central to the story. My only slight criticism besides a few typos was there there were a lot of minor characters to keep straight. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the other books in the series. Recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 13, 2016
This is book four in the "The Emperors of London". I have been jumping around in the series, so for me this is a stand alone book..but there are parts that make it easier if you do read them in order. Claudia Shaw is our heroine, and somewhat head strong..some one even call her a hellion. While going over the mail with her family (her mother looks over it before handing mail out), she get a letter from a lawyer. In the letter it is reporting that she has inherited a house. Of course her mom quickly tells her to pass the letter on to her father so that he can handle the issue. But, Claudia doesn't want to do that and instead tries to look into the issue herself. Which leads her to sneak around on her own to find out that the house is actually a brothel! Our hero, Dominic who was a soldier for the Crown, and is on one last "mission" to find a young Pretender to the British throne. But, Dominic meets a former friend who then introduces him to his two sister, one being Claudia. That is how their paths cross and once Dominic leans of Claudia house he sets off to protect her and her reputation. Claudia in turns helps him come to terms with things he has found out about his life. A enjoyable read and was glad to have the chance to read it.
January 28, 2016
I love Lynne's books (all that I have read, so far!). She researches well, and has characters who run throughout, to some extent. I wish there was a little more crossover of previous main characters into the later books in the series.
Based on the review/ teaser I read, I rather expected the main character would end up in an (almost) completely different place than she did. But, actually where she ended was probably more realistic!
In this book, I love that the main character Claudia (a name I love) has some spunk. Too often, spunky women end up "broken" in some way by the male characters. Thankfully, Claudia is not "tamed" - but instead is appreciated by Dominic. Hooray!
I felt like I may have missed a bit regarding the Pretender. In one scene (the second time Dominic meets him) I just had this feeling that there was some nuance to the situation that we would only appreciate fully with more historical context. While I realize that many readers would not care, a small allusion (so I could go look it up myself) would have been appreciated.
I love that this series has some romance, but that it does not overtake the story. Story first, love second. Thanks, Lynne!
Based on the review/ teaser I read, I rather expected the main character would end up in an (almost) completely different place than she did. But, actually where she ended was probably more realistic!
In this book, I love that the main character Claudia (a name I love) has some spunk. Too often, spunky women end up "broken" in some way by the male characters. Thankfully, Claudia is not "tamed" - but instead is appreciated by Dominic. Hooray!
I felt like I may have missed a bit regarding the Pretender. In one scene (the second time Dominic meets him) I just had this feeling that there was some nuance to the situation that we would only appreciate fully with more historical context. While I realize that many readers would not care, a small allusion (so I could go look it up myself) would have been appreciated.
I love that this series has some romance, but that it does not overtake the story. Story first, love second. Thanks, Lynne!
October 16, 2015
Reckless in Pink is the fourth title in the Emperors of London series. This book is the story of Dominic, a former solider and heir to a title and Claudia Shaw. Claudia has a reputation as a bit of a hellion and meets Dominic while out shopping and finds him intriguing. That same day she finds out she inherited a house from an spinster aunt with the stipulation that she cannot sell it. Eager to see her inheritance, Claudia sneaks out and discovers the home is a brothel sympathetic to the Jacobite cause. Dominic is following the Young Pretender and happens to see Claudia enter the brothel; he follows her in and helps her escape with her reputation intact. Dominic has suspected his parents of being loyal to the Jacobite cause for a number of years, but when he confronts them, he learns the truth is much different from what he ever imagined. Claudia has to help Dominic come to terms with his new reality before he can commit to her. I enjoyed the history that is interwoven with the story; the relationship between Dominic and Claudia could have been given more time to develop, but overall, I enjoyed both characters and am looking forward to the next title in the series.
May 12, 2016
This review is written after I re-read the book. I was forced to read it again in order to review it and I thought it would be a good idea to remember the events of the story in case it was needed for Dilemma in yellow silk. I knew that a second reading wouldn’t do any good in my opinion of the book, because I didn’t like it very much the first time I read it. I didn’t want to read it and I found myself putting it off for more than a week. I thought that since the book would drag for me, I would spend a long time reading it, but I read It's surprisingly fast. That was probably because I wasn’t getting into the story, but more like reading one word after the other.
Once the word Jacobites appeared I thought first of Outlander and then “Oh, this is the book where one half of the main couple happens to be a child of the overthrown king.” I can’t say that I paid much attention to the story and that’s why I came to the conclusion that the series isn’t for me. The next book will determine if I am going to give a second chance to the series. So far the authors writing hasn’t agreed with me.
Once the word Jacobites appeared I thought first of Outlander and then “Oh, this is the book where one half of the main couple happens to be a child of the overthrown king.” I can’t say that I paid much attention to the story and that’s why I came to the conclusion that the series isn’t for me. The next book will determine if I am going to give a second chance to the series. So far the authors writing hasn’t agreed with me.
December 6, 2015
Lynne Connolly's Emperors of London series is one of my favorite and most anticipated, currently being written, historical romance collections. Reading Ms. Connolly is like stepping back in time with the wealth of historical knowledge that she subtly instills throughout her books. Reckless in Pink is the fourth work in this series and continues with this author's practice of depicting intelligent and sexy mystery veiled characters. Looming danger and shadowy secrets set the tone and add to the urgency of the hero and heroine’s passion in this thrilling story of love and espionage! One thing you can always count on with this writer is a good time and a quality read!
*I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
*I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
December 22, 2015
Dominic and Claudia in Reckless in Pink is a very good read. From the start both are drawn to each other and see the person behind the public mask. Claudia is mischief personified and is trying to overcome her boredom. Dominic is just back from warring in order to fulfill his familial duty. His only desire is to get it over with. But meeting Claudia changes his outlook on life as well as sets wheels in motion. I enjoyed this book from beginning to to end.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
April 29, 2017
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historical
January 25, 2019Like the royals for whom they were named, the Emperors of London family have enemies and rivals of their own…
As a soldier for the Crown, Dominic is charged with locating the Young Pretender to the British throne so he can be tried as a traitor. But his mission is altered when he meets Claudia Shaw, an intriguing young woman who has inherited a house of ill repute. In an effort to protect Claudia from her own recklessness, Dominic finds himself allowing the Pretender to slip away…
Claudia is one of the Emperors of London, but her family despairs of her impetuous behavior. And try as he might, the disciplined Dominic cannot quite curb her excesses. In fact, she soon drags him into her adventures—and toward a passion neither can resist. But when a deadly secret comes to light that puts their lives, and their love, at risk, Claudia won’t allow Dominic to sacrifice himself. She is determined to have him—even if it means getting the Young Pretender out of the way herself.
As a soldier for the Crown, Dominic is charged with locating the Young Pretender to the British throne so he can be tried as a traitor. But his mission is altered when he meets Claudia Shaw, an intriguing young woman who has inherited a house of ill repute. In an effort to protect Claudia from her own recklessness, Dominic finds himself allowing the Pretender to slip away…
Claudia is one of the Emperors of London, but her family despairs of her impetuous behavior. And try as he might, the disciplined Dominic cannot quite curb her excesses. In fact, she soon drags him into her adventures—and toward a passion neither can resist. But when a deadly secret comes to light that puts their lives, and their love, at risk, Claudia won’t allow Dominic to sacrifice himself. She is determined to have him—even if it means getting the Young Pretender out of the way herself.
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