The Viscount's Silent Pugilist

The Silk Knuckles Saloon #2

by Nicki Pascarella

When the world silences her, he gives her the courage to strike back.

When Viscount Jonathan Davenport discovers a mystery woman fighting off a group of bandits with only her fists and wits, he immediately knows she belongs at The Silk Knuckles Saloon. If only he could convince her to speak, or learn to read the notes she pens to him; only then they might come to know one another.

Lady Genevieve is on the run from her abusive father when a handsome stranger inserts himself into her life, offering her a fresh start. As much as she wants to talk to him, her throat refuses to work. Still, he seems to understand her, offering her everything she has ever dreamed of.

When Genevieve’s highly publicized fight leads a dangerous individual to their door, Jonathan and Gen must work together to save her from her haunting past.

Genres: Slow Burn, Historical

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 8, 2026

About the author

Nicki Pascarella writes Contemporary and Historical romances. She enjoys mixing genres—adding mysteries to steamy small-town romances, or a pinch of paranormal fantasy to her romantic comedies. It’s all about making her readers laugh and fall in love.

Using her twenty-nine years of experience as a high school teacher and her background in creative writing and journalism, she coaches authors for The MediaCasters. Helping artists break through creative blocks is one of her passions.

When she isn't writing and editing, she reads, runs, and hangs with her husband, daughter, and Shetland sheepdogs. Nicki is also an award-winning belly dancer.

Reviews

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Earlier this year, I read the previous book in this series and was intrigued by the premise. Lady pugilists, roving eyes, and a murder subplot I couldn't be arsed reading. This sequel did have a unique setting with a mute heroine and a dyslexic hero whose miscommunication abounded. They were cute towards each other but there were 100 pages too many and my attention often flagged. I think I'm ringing the bell for a timeout because the titillation isn't enough for the filler. I didn't care about the suspense or minor characters. I just wanted the main couple to fall in love and declare their love however they could. I give major snaps for the uniqueness, but it wasn't worthy of a championship belt. You're outta here!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing story with two characters who despite the fact that they can't communicate at first find a way to not only communicate but to trust and to bond with each other.

Jonathan can't read because he has dyslexia and she can't speak due to a tragic event as a child however with the right people in their lives, he helps her overcome that trauma enough to not only speak but to feel safe and she helps him realize that his dyslexia isn't something to be ashamed of and she helps him by creating a way for him to not only read but to navigate his own decisions for his accounts and so much more..

This story shows that just because someone is happy and outgoing on the outside doesn't mean they aren't struggling on the inside.. and just because someone's homeless doesn't mean that they are mentally ill etc they can be hiding from something or someone..

This story has so much packed into it about powerful women and the fact that even rich and powerful people have struggles too..

I definitely enjoyed this book from the beginning to the end..

I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Cassandra]

I like the idea of this series. Women who are strong and train in sports because they love it and the men who are into these sexy fierce women. Our lead here both are dealing with issues regarding internal and external conflicts. He really supported her wants to train and learn how to fight. I like that her desire to fight didn't have as much to do with her thinking she could take out her father but that she loved exercise and got a thrill from boxing. I know it sounds a bit leering but I loved how he recognized her strength but was so attracted to her athleticism.

I do think it dragged a bit in places but I am excited to read more by this author and can't wait for the next in the series.
5/6 stars

[Alexandra G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m completely in love with the Silk Knuckles Saloon series and its prequels – and this slightly bonkers, witty and very much heartfelt tale only had me fall harder!

After witnessing her father’s atrocity at a young age, Genevieve lost her voice but never the drive to keep her siblings safe. Yet when he gambles her away to a cruel Lord, she runs. Homeless, hungry and fighting for her life is how London’s most dashing rake – Jonathan, Viscount Davenport – finds her in a fight club alleyway.
Too ashamed he cannot read, Jonathan prefers to let the ton think him a happy-go-lucky himbo – and it’s not his fault the ladies like him all the more because of it. He loves his frivolous life... then why did he abandon his mistress to save a stray?

I adore this man – and his mum is an unparalleled gem!
He’s been the goofy buffer in this series since the start, and he has the most ginormous heart! Open-minded, caring and currently troubled he can’t handle his estates as he’d like to, he really is an exemplary nobleman, adoring son and feminist – with a healthy appetite for bedsport.
Guilt and fear are what close up Gen’s throat. The unconditional kindness and support of the Davenports and their colourful coterie – this really is an extraordinary crew! – and the opportunity to channel her natural athleticism into boxing, give her the confidence she needs to overcome it. And she’ll need it, because her dad isn’t done yet!

Their attraction is instant – excellent chemistry! – but their communicational challenges and creativity in overcoming them really sealed the deal for me – funny, fumbly and touching; the perfect humour/heart balance with just enough friction.
It’s so obvious their love match is written in the stars, but there’s plenty of challenges (no TAB) to make this romance utterly enthralling and that slow burn sizzle was simply delectable!
Plus, I really loved how Horatio a.k.a. Floppy (Gen’s furry friend) stole his scenes!
And the vanquishing of the villain was chef’s kiss!

A fantabulous read, and one you should definitely check out!

[readmeregency · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes I like to swim in angst, and sometimes I like to float in a cloud of feel-good escapism. This latest instalment of The Silk Knuckles Saloon falls into the latter category, although it still has its fair share of yearning and emotional upheaval.

Gen is on the run from her murderous father and terrifying suitor. Without a solid plan, she ends up on the streets with noone for company besides a friendly canine companion. When Jonathan saves a street waif, he realises (with time) that they weren't a scrawny lad at all, but a young lady. He brings her home, and unable to communicate with her, tries his best to help her get back on his feet. He introduces her to pugilism (of course), and they muddle their way through together.

Pascarella's books always have a fun, almost-comedic feel, underlaid by ominous villains and sensual romance. This one utilises two character tropes I really enjoy - mutism and dyslexia. The combo means that communication is even more difficult than usual, so Gen and Jonathan have an unconventional start to their relationship. Pouring your deepest secrets and heart out to a woman because you assume she doesn't speak English? Turns out, very effective courtship method. Teaching your love interest how to bulk, defend herself, and kick butt? Very sexy.

Besides the romance, I found this to have a very strong "found family" vibe. It's full of welcoming supporting secondary characters, in a histrom world where women can train, fight, and compete like men whilst maintaining their respectable Lady status. It's sweet, steamy, and fun!

[Winnifred D. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tropes: hidden identity; forced proximity; reformed rake; female pugilist
Steam level: 3
Part of a series, works ok as a standalone.

This is engaging for the most part, with "Cinderella-ish" vibes, but it doesn't stack up to other HR's I've read about female boxers. It starts off with an interesting premise and harrowing plot, as MFC Gen runs away from her murderer father and a forced wedding, but ends up leaning too much on fantasy and not enough on 1800's England reality. Sometimes I wondered if the modern American language and behavior were meant on purpose (early on MMC Jonathan thinks of himself as a "snowflake" and keeps referring as his mistress as his "date") but then sometimes the language is flowery and archaic. Also, Jonathan is a bit too rake-y for my taste. In contrast, Gen can't/doesn't speak much for quite a while, and she often comes across as younger and more naive than her age. The humor keeps things lively, but the pacing is inconsistent.

With Jonathan's frustrations about his dyslexia and Gen's struggles with trauma, the author's heart is in the right place. The storyline just doesn't quite come together for me.

This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book. Thanks to the author, Net Galley, and Dragonblade for the opportunity.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars.
“The Viscount’s Silent Pugilist”, by Nicki Pascarella, is an enjoyable, well written story, with likable, relatable characters and a romance that begins as sweet and quickly turns into something much more explosive.
I loved the trust and openess between Jonathan and Genevieve, how they’re honest with each other and there’s no melodrama or misunderstandings.
The affection, kindness and humor between the hero, his relatives and friends and how everyone makes Genevieve (and the dog) feel welcome and cherished is heartwarming.
One senses a strong author’s voice behind this atmosphere, and I really enjoyed it.
I also liked that both leads struggle with debilitating issues, and appreciated how they overcome it. And the irony of its impact on their communication isn’t lost.
I felt the story was too long and skipped the smut scenes. Genevieve’s healing process seemed too sudden.
The pugilism dimension was interesting.

[Eleanor Pilcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Viscount's Silent Pugilist immediately stands out because the title itself creates curiosity. The combination of a viscount and a silent pugilist suggests a story built around class, secrecy, strength, and a character whose abilities may speak louder than words.

What I found particularly intriguing is the contrast within the premise implied by the title: the refined world of the aristocracy set against the physical intensity and discipline of pugilism. That combination gives the novel a distinctive historical identity and creates a natural hook for readers who enjoy stories involving hidden identities, unconventional heroes, and historical intrigue.

With the book newly published and already showing a 4.17 rating from 6 ratings and 6 reviews, there is a valuable early foundation to build upon. Reaching more historical fiction and romance readers now could help turn that initial interest into stronger long-term visibility.

[Debbie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of finding one’s inner strengths
This love story has a MMC who can’t read and a FMC who can’t speak to read to him and help him. The juxtaposition of their inner struggles doesn’t stop them from supporting each other in their personal growth quests or in finding love.
This was an excellent story in and of itself–Nicki’s past heroines in this series have been outspoken, strong ladies, and this FMC who lived life in the shadows was a unique, interesting departure. And of course, the message that love does make us stronger, and helps us see our own strengths through our partner’s eyes was wonderful.
At the end, the story was elevated further by reading the author’s note. This is a deeply personal book to her as both a special ed teacher and someone who had experienced selective mutism.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great series of women who live outside the box in their life choices in Regency London. Whether it's in the ring or with the perfect man.
Viscount Jonathan Davenport's life changes in one night when he saves Lady Genevieve and her dog in a dark alley fighting off a ring of thugs. She holds her own, but is too weak to keep fighting. With Jonathan's sponsorship, she trains as a pugilist with the ladies of The Silk Knuckles Saloon. Only there's a problem in Genevieve and Jonathan's communication and she's in danger.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Netgalley.

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in The Silk Knuckles Saloon series was an amazing and heartfelt slowburn historical romance. It was unique with a perfect blend of drama, action intrigue, and excitement that kept me captivated throughout. The characters were fantastic with good depth. How they overcame personal struggles and conflicts with the love and support of one another and from their friends and family was lovely. The pup was a delightful treat. I really enjoyed their strong connection and passionate love. I highly recommend reading!

[HC W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan and Gen are so sweet together. I loved that they had to find a way to communicate. I am looking forward to the next book.