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Markham Hall #1-4
Markham Hall Series Bundle
Yorkshire, 1879
I am alone.
When Ivy Leavold is left destitute by her brother’s death, she is taken in by her cousin’s brooding, tortured widower--Julian Markham. Handsome and possessive, it’s not long before Ivy falls for him. But Mr. Markham has dark secrets, secrets that may put Ivy in danger...
I am afraid.
As Ivy unravels the mystery surrounding her cousin’s death, she falls deeper and deeper in love with Julian, who opens her body and her mind to his indomitable will. But even as he draws pleasure and desire from her night after night, Ivy can’t shake the feeling that their passionate affair may end in violence…
And I am completely his.
So begins the riveting Markham Hall trilogy--a tangled tale of love, betrayal, and murder. This volume includes The Awakening of Ivy Leavold, the second book, The Education of Ivy Leavold, and the third book, The Punishment of Ivy Leavold. And then enjoy a final glimpse into Julian and Ivy's lives in the bonus novelette, The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold!
I am alone.
When Ivy Leavold is left destitute by her brother’s death, she is taken in by her cousin’s brooding, tortured widower--Julian Markham. Handsome and possessive, it’s not long before Ivy falls for him. But Mr. Markham has dark secrets, secrets that may put Ivy in danger...
I am afraid.
As Ivy unravels the mystery surrounding her cousin’s death, she falls deeper and deeper in love with Julian, who opens her body and her mind to his indomitable will. But even as he draws pleasure and desire from her night after night, Ivy can’t shake the feeling that their passionate affair may end in violence…
And I am completely his.
So begins the riveting Markham Hall trilogy--a tangled tale of love, betrayal, and murder. This volume includes The Awakening of Ivy Leavold, the second book, The Education of Ivy Leavold, and the third book, The Punishment of Ivy Leavold. And then enjoy a final glimpse into Julian and Ivy's lives in the bonus novelette, The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold!
499 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2015
15 people are currently reading
678 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 22, 2016
♦ 4 "Wildcat" Stars! ♦
So yesterday I saw some of my GR friends were reading historical and I got jelous LOL (joke!) No but I decided, since it has been a long time, to read some myself. And did I find it!
The Markham Hall series is written by Sierra Simone (the author that gave us the hottest Priest ever!) and it tells the story of Julian Markham a.k.a Mr Markham (the lonely misterious widower that takes the protagonist by after she loses her family) and Ivy Leavold (the also lonely cousin of Julian's last wife).
“Lock your door at night, wildcat.”
“Why?”
White teeth flashed. A grin.
“Because of me.”
These books are probably some of the kinkiest historical romance that I have read. Let me tell you, sometimes it was too much! While reading this you will discover some things that I am sure they will not leave you indeferent to the misterious Julian! These two have amazing chemistry and A LOT of sexual tension, especially in the first book. Together they are explosive and they are not afraid (more or less) of having some kinky kinky times.
“You are mine,” he said as he began driving in faster. “You are completely mine. Only mine. Your cunt and your lips and your heart—they belong to me.”
How desperately I wanted to see him. And how desperately I wanted him to go away.
Still, something that I also found in Simone's standalone Priest is that his heros like to call the females 'slut' sometimes. I do not like that at all. To me, Ivy is an ordinary female character (not too weak not too strong) but the fact that she does not care when Julian calls her that it makes her look weaker. That's just my opinion.
I loved him. I loved him to the point of the damnation of my soul.
Therefore, my final rating for this series is 4 STARS. It's not one of my favourites but I quite enjoyed it! I am sure if you are into kinky historical romance, you will enjoy this!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
So yesterday I saw some of my GR friends were reading historical and I got jelous LOL (joke!) No but I decided, since it has been a long time, to read some myself. And did I find it!
The Markham Hall series is written by Sierra Simone (the author that gave us the hottest Priest ever!) and it tells the story of Julian Markham a.k.a Mr Markham (the lonely misterious widower that takes the protagonist by after she loses her family) and Ivy Leavold (the also lonely cousin of Julian's last wife).
“Lock your door at night, wildcat.”
“Why?”
White teeth flashed. A grin.
“Because of me.”
These books are probably some of the kinkiest historical romance that I have read. Let me tell you, sometimes it was too much! While reading this you will discover some things that I am sure they will not leave you indeferent to the misterious Julian! These two have amazing chemistry and A LOT of sexual tension, especially in the first book. Together they are explosive and they are not afraid (more or less) of having some kinky kinky times.
“You are mine,” he said as he began driving in faster. “You are completely mine. Only mine. Your cunt and your lips and your heart—they belong to me.”
How desperately I wanted to see him. And how desperately I wanted him to go away.
Still, something that I also found in Simone's standalone Priest is that his heros like to call the females 'slut' sometimes. I do not like that at all. To me, Ivy is an ordinary female character (not too weak not too strong) but the fact that she does not care when Julian calls her that it makes her look weaker. That's just my opinion.
I loved him. I loved him to the point of the damnation of my soul.
Therefore, my final rating for this series is 4 STARS. It's not one of my favourites but I quite enjoyed it! I am sure if you are into kinky historical romance, you will enjoy this!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
June 21, 2015
Seductive, enthralling, thought-provoking... Reading this series has been a memorable experience and I enjoyed it immensely. Will I recommend this series? Yes, at least to any erotic historical lovers out there who love to indulge in a book layered with a bucketload of spice, kink and smut. Will I read future books by this author? HELL YES.
July 17, 2017
5+++ STARS!
This is an amazingly hot, erotic, sensual series. Julian Markham is commanding, handsome and knows how to use his mouth and other parts of his body in every way!! Ivy is such a strong heroine and is not going to deny her needs or Julian's! I highly recommend this series!
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This is an amazingly hot, erotic, sensual series. Julian Markham is commanding, handsome and knows how to use his mouth and other parts of his body in every way!! Ivy is such a strong heroine and is not going to deny her needs or Julian's! I highly recommend this series!
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review:https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 9, 2015
5 hot, steamy & romantic stars
"He was wild and feral, like myself. We were the same- solitary animals forced into human skin."
So I must confess that I started off this series with a bit of hesitation. I have never read a historical romance novel before and it's no secret that books with this genre are not even remotely close to the top of my TBR list. But, holy shit, I am glad I did. So how does a book series I wasn't completely sure about reading find it's way to the top of my all time favorites list? Well that's an easy one- the author, Sierra Simone, has an uncanny ability to literally make you pant with need while reading many of the erotic scenes. I kid you not. The sexual chemistry between Mr. Markham and Ivy was so steamy and so intense, that I found myself having to read this series in front of a fan for fear of heat exhaustion.
So how best to describe this book series? It's like Pride and Prejudice, meets Eyes Wide Shut, meets 50 Shades(If 50 Shades was good). Then add in a creepy house and a murder mystery and VOILA! I give you The Markham Hall Series!
The heroine, Ivy, is truly amazing. Her free spirit reminded me a lot of Elizabeth Bennett from Pride and Prejudice (minus Ivy's whole 'I need to be dominated and constantly sexed' factor). Both women lived in a time where different was not viewed as a good thing. Ivy was constantly described by others in the book as 'wild'...but really she was just a woman who found solace in freedom. That's what I think I liked the most about Ivy. Although she was clearly from a different time period, she was relatable and oftentimes, quite humorous.
There is a funny scene in beginning of the first book in which Mr. Markham catches Ivy out of her bed in the middle of the night and in the courtyard. He asks: Are you so wild that you cannot even sleep in a bed at night?" Unto which she replies. "It depends on the bed." See? Definitely funny, and definitely something I could see myself saying.
And omg. The hero, Mr. Markham. Just wow. Dark, brooding, mysterious and dominating. Damn. He's crude and crass and holy shit, I loved him. I've decided to dub him the king of 'all dirty talking book boyfriends'. Trust me on this, you will not find a better dirty talking alpha male in any other book.
Ivy and Mr. Markham have such a bond that you literally feel their love and devotion towards each other growing with each turn of the page. They were, quite literally, obsessed with one another. In all other books I read, this type of obsession would strike me as weird creepy, but the author does a great job in creating such depth and emotion with thier relationship that it's anything but.
"My soul was yours to take from the moment I met you, Julian."
So getting down to the nitty gritty of this historical romance, we have the submissive/dominant feature of the books. Having fallen asleep while reading "50 Shades of Grey", I was very nervous about the whole BDSM aspect and where it will go. But damn, it worked. And yes, it was amazing and sexy and provocative and...I could keep going, but I won't....I will save the rest of the steamy details for the reader!
"Julian," I said. Green eyes met mine. "Use me. Do the things you can't show anybody else. Please."
The whole mystery involving Mr. Markham's past wives also played a big part in this series. It was very well done and created a lot of very suspenseful moments in the novels as well.
All in all, I loved this series. There was not one time while reading that I found myself bored or disinterested. In fact, it was the exact opposite. I could not put these novels down.
"He was wild and feral, like myself. We were the same- solitary animals forced into human skin."
So I must confess that I started off this series with a bit of hesitation. I have never read a historical romance novel before and it's no secret that books with this genre are not even remotely close to the top of my TBR list. But, holy shit, I am glad I did. So how does a book series I wasn't completely sure about reading find it's way to the top of my all time favorites list? Well that's an easy one- the author, Sierra Simone, has an uncanny ability to literally make you pant with need while reading many of the erotic scenes. I kid you not. The sexual chemistry between Mr. Markham and Ivy was so steamy and so intense, that I found myself having to read this series in front of a fan for fear of heat exhaustion.
So how best to describe this book series? It's like Pride and Prejudice, meets Eyes Wide Shut, meets 50 Shades(If 50 Shades was good). Then add in a creepy house and a murder mystery and VOILA! I give you The Markham Hall Series!
The heroine, Ivy, is truly amazing. Her free spirit reminded me a lot of Elizabeth Bennett from Pride and Prejudice (minus Ivy's whole 'I need to be dominated and constantly sexed' factor). Both women lived in a time where different was not viewed as a good thing. Ivy was constantly described by others in the book as 'wild'...but really she was just a woman who found solace in freedom. That's what I think I liked the most about Ivy. Although she was clearly from a different time period, she was relatable and oftentimes, quite humorous.
There is a funny scene in beginning of the first book in which Mr. Markham catches Ivy out of her bed in the middle of the night and in the courtyard. He asks: Are you so wild that you cannot even sleep in a bed at night?" Unto which she replies. "It depends on the bed." See? Definitely funny, and definitely something I could see myself saying.
And omg. The hero, Mr. Markham. Just wow. Dark, brooding, mysterious and dominating. Damn. He's crude and crass and holy shit, I loved him. I've decided to dub him the king of 'all dirty talking book boyfriends'. Trust me on this, you will not find a better dirty talking alpha male in any other book.
Ivy and Mr. Markham have such a bond that you literally feel their love and devotion towards each other growing with each turn of the page. They were, quite literally, obsessed with one another. In all other books I read, this type of obsession would strike me as weird creepy, but the author does a great job in creating such depth and emotion with thier relationship that it's anything but.
"My soul was yours to take from the moment I met you, Julian."
So getting down to the nitty gritty of this historical romance, we have the submissive/dominant feature of the books. Having fallen asleep while reading "50 Shades of Grey", I was very nervous about the whole BDSM aspect and where it will go. But damn, it worked. And yes, it was amazing and sexy and provocative and...I could keep going, but I won't....I will save the rest of the steamy details for the reader!
"Julian," I said. Green eyes met mine. "Use me. Do the things you can't show anybody else. Please."
The whole mystery involving Mr. Markham's past wives also played a big part in this series. It was very well done and created a lot of very suspenseful moments in the novels as well.
All in all, I loved this series. There was not one time while reading that I found myself bored or disinterested. In fact, it was the exact opposite. I could not put these novels down.
August 19, 2016
3.75 - Punish me - stars
Markham Hall is a four book series written by a fantastic writer Sierra Simone. The books are short novels that should be read in the following order:
1 - The Awakening of Ivy Leavold
2 - The Education of Ivy Leavold
3 - The Punishment of Ivy Leavold
4 - The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold
The series follows the story of Ivy Leavold as she founds herseld and her dark desires in the Victorian society.
" I don't know if I like this woman."
" You don't have to like her....You are her."
Ivy is an orphan who doesn't have any living relatives and that's why has to move in with Mr. Julian Markhan, her dead cousin's husband.
There Ivy is met with dark desires and secrets that could easily break and even kill her. Her cousin's death is a mystery, one she wants and dreads to solve.
" Who is anyone to say this is right or this is natural? Doesn't the very fact that you want it make it natural to you?"
All in all I can say that I liked this series. It was quite sexy and very hot. Mr. Markham was at his best - the true dominant of his century.
The only aspect I could not connect with was historical. For me it was not at all. But if you want to read some hot sex scenes, this book is just for you.
Markham Hall is a four book series written by a fantastic writer Sierra Simone. The books are short novels that should be read in the following order:
1 - The Awakening of Ivy Leavold
2 - The Education of Ivy Leavold
3 - The Punishment of Ivy Leavold
4 - The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold
The series follows the story of Ivy Leavold as she founds herseld and her dark desires in the Victorian society.
" I don't know if I like this woman."
" You don't have to like her....You are her."
Ivy is an orphan who doesn't have any living relatives and that's why has to move in with Mr. Julian Markhan, her dead cousin's husband.
There Ivy is met with dark desires and secrets that could easily break and even kill her. Her cousin's death is a mystery, one she wants and dreads to solve.
" Who is anyone to say this is right or this is natural? Doesn't the very fact that you want it make it natural to you?"
All in all I can say that I liked this series. It was quite sexy and very hot. Mr. Markham was at his best - the true dominant of his century.
The only aspect I could not connect with was historical. For me it was not at all. But if you want to read some hot sex scenes, this book is just for you.
August 22, 2015
Hot, gritty and liberating. These are the three words I can use to describe the series. It has been a while since I've read a historical romance but this was quite different. The storytelling was unique and deliciously edgy.
The story of Ivy Leavold is passionate, dark and consuming. Ivy is a poor young woman with no family. When she finds herself in the care of Julian Markham, her late cousin's husband, she is both scared and excited for her new life. Upon her arrival in Markham Hall her entire life is altered.
Mr. Markham is dark and elusive. His eyes are a mystery. The rumours around his late wife's death make him even darker and dangerous. Ivy is mesmerised. The attraction is inevitable. Their affair is sizzling and forbidden. Ivy discovers the darkest parts off her self; her darkest desires and Julian is her teacher.
Lies, secrets, betrayal and death lurk in the dark corners of Markham Hall and Ivy will have to make a choice; can she trust the man who knows her deepest cravings or will she be another one if his dead conquests?
I loved the writing. Julian was deliciously wicked and dark and Ivy was a likeable heroine. The settings fascinated me and the plot kept me on my toes. I do think that there was too much sex in the books and I would have liked some more chase between our couple but in the end the sexuality was not tiring. If you love edgy and gritty reads then this series is for you.
4.5 Stars from me
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story of Ivy Leavold is passionate, dark and consuming. Ivy is a poor young woman with no family. When she finds herself in the care of Julian Markham, her late cousin's husband, she is both scared and excited for her new life. Upon her arrival in Markham Hall her entire life is altered.
Mr. Markham is dark and elusive. His eyes are a mystery. The rumours around his late wife's death make him even darker and dangerous. Ivy is mesmerised. The attraction is inevitable. Their affair is sizzling and forbidden. Ivy discovers the darkest parts off her self; her darkest desires and Julian is her teacher.
Lies, secrets, betrayal and death lurk in the dark corners of Markham Hall and Ivy will have to make a choice; can she trust the man who knows her deepest cravings or will she be another one if his dead conquests?
I loved the writing. Julian was deliciously wicked and dark and Ivy was a likeable heroine. The settings fascinated me and the plot kept me on my toes. I do think that there was too much sex in the books and I would have liked some more chase between our couple but in the end the sexuality was not tiring. If you love edgy and gritty reads then this series is for you.
4.5 Stars from me
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Want to read
March 8, 2016
Books in Markham Hall series should be read in order:
Book 1-4: Markham Hall Series Bundle
Book 1: The Awakening of Ivy Leavold
Book 2: The Education of Ivy Leavold
Book 3: The Punishment of Ivy Leavold
Book 4: The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold
November 10, 2015
5 "You know why." Stars
My girls kept telling me I had to meet Julian Markham and they were absolutely right. The "historical" aspect kept from reading it at first and I'm kicking myself now for not reading the Markham Hall series sooner. Being historical added so much allure to the books and to Julian and Ivy themselves. I loved everything about their story. I loved that it was erotic. It was beautifully written and engaging. These are characters I won't soon forget. If you enjoy kinky love stories that are exquisitely written I urge you not to wait as long as I did to read Julian and Ivy's story!
Thanks to my reading besties - DeannaPinkLady, Irene, and JxxxPindLady for making me read this!
October 16, 2015
The Awakening of Ivy Leavold Review
Well, there isn't much in the romance genre that I don't read, but historical romance is so,etching that I have never really been too enthusiastic about. I love it on tv, and films but not really books. But after reading Priest by Sierra Simone, and absolutely loving her style of writing, I knew I would make an exception to my no historical romance books, for her Markham Hall series. It definitely didn't hurt that it was also erotica. :)
So first off, when I started this book I noticed immediately this was not what I was expecting. It didn't feel like a historical romance, it felt timeless, I didn't even pay attention to any details of time. Yes the setting was different, and the clothes, maybe a few words were not used today, but apart from that I never noticed, because the story took over, and the characters and I didn't pay attention to he era.
When Ivy Leavold's brother dies and leaves her with no other living relatives, she is spared having to work as a governess at the last minute, by a distant relative through marriage. Ivy's late cousins husband, Julian Markham agrees to take in Ivy and provide her with a home, to try to atone for his past sins.
Once Ivy arrives at Markham Hall, she sees the gothic and dark mansion as somewhere to fall in love with, the peace, and the beautiful grounds are perfect and she is at home immediately.
Yet besides the beautiful grounds, hall, and owner of her new home, Ivy finds herself trying to piece together what happened to her late cousin, and why her death was such a mystery. Yet it would seem Julian Markham is keeping secrets beneath that sexiness. And Ivy is determined to find the, all out.
The master of Markham Hall is another thing all together. He is dark, sullen and mysterious. But he exudes something forbidden and awakens something in Ivy that she has not been aware of in her 19 years. Desire and lust.
Pretty soon it is apparent why this book is nothing like the historical romances that I am aware of. This is erotica in a class of its own. It's sexy, addictive, and almost forbidden. The tension and chemistry between Ivy and Julian is off the wall hot, the scenes are so intense and written so well I almost felt like I was snooping on a real couple.
I would definitely recommend this to Erotica lovers, never mind the fact that this is a historical romance, that does not take away the addictive and incredibly sexy story. Historical romance lovers will still get their fix plus much more, and non historical romance fans can't possibly not enjoy this, it's full on sizzling pages, with a gorgeous dominant alpha. This is a must read!!!
The Education Of Ivy Leavold Review.
Wow, holy hotness!!
This second chapter of the Markham Hall series is even hotter than the first one. I was blown away by the steamy and intense scenes of The Awakening of Ivy Leavold, but The Education completely topped it.
The first part ended with Julian Markham wanting Ivy to marry him, we didn't get an answer from her, it just ended. So straight in to this book, it continues immediately and we get Ivy's answer.
On from Julian wanting Ivy to marry him, we also start to learn in this book the extent of what Julian craves, and how he intends to teach Ivy. Yes, Julian likes it harder, and far more depraved than you would imagine from a victorian era book, but I think that's what makes it all the more enticing and exciting. The fact that you wouldn't expect it in that time, from such gentlemen and ladies in all their splendid and respectable clothing, makes it more naughty, forbidden and incredibly sexy.
So again this book is 130 ish pages of intense heat, and stupidly arousing sex scenes. But alongside that is the incredibly addictive story that was building in the first book. All the mystery surrounding Julian Markham's previous wife is still present, and there's still other characters waiting to put in their opinions and little bits of information, to confuse Ivy even more.
It is almost like the mystery in this book steps up a notch, we do find out some more info, and there is a huge shocking reveal at the end, which I'm not entirely sure Ivy will take all that well, but we will find all out in the next book, which I am starting immediately.
Oh and I have to mention naughty and posh gentleman friend Silas. Did I mention very hot, and likes to share? Well uhh yes, he is yum and I really hope we see more of him.
Definitely recommended, not just for historical romance lovers, but for lovers of very hot erotica, and mystery. This book has it all and much more!!
The Punishment Of Ivy Leavold Review
This third part in the Markham Hall series continues after Ivy leaves Julian, after his revelations about what happened the night Violet died.
Ivy needs time alone to think, about what she wants and how she feels, so decides to spend some time in London with her newly found Aunt.
The time when Ivy is in London, and Julian follows but keeps a distance, at her request, is kind of slow and a little boring compared to how the pace and story has gone so far. I understand the need to have them separate and it all works out really well, but those parts just dragged a little.
Yet everything seems to step up a notch in action and excitement once they attend the Baron's special party, not only is it complete dirty and very sexy, which I have come to learn is what makes these stories so hard to put down, but also it picks up the pace again. Not only is this night of crazy debauchery a pleasant turn towards the end, but also a lot of mystery surrounding the past, and the deaths is now ready to be revealed.
I must admit I was quite shocked when all the reveals started to come out, I hadn't suspected certain characters and it was quite the shocker. But this all led to an extremely gripping end of this book, and I couldn't stop reading.
Again, I loved this third part in this addictive series. They are super fast, sexy reads with an air of mystery and intrigue. I would most definitely recommend them to everyone. Also lovely touch at the end!
The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold Review
A very short, but still incredibly good final chapter in Ivy and Julian's story.
This final story is only 30 something pages I think, but it shows a small part of their life after everything has settled, and they are now experiencing married life, and parenthood, but also a little glitch in their normally incredible sex life.
As always these characters are perfect, and I love the way Julian deals with things in his own brute, roguish way. Proving how bad, yet so good he can be.
A must read, for this series!!!
Final Thoughts:
An incredibly sexy, romance. Nothing like I expected. It's full of mystery and intrigue, sexy and totally naughty. With gorgeous dresses, and huge mansions. Hugely recommended. 5 stars.
**I was given a copy of this book, in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Well, there isn't much in the romance genre that I don't read, but historical romance is so,etching that I have never really been too enthusiastic about. I love it on tv, and films but not really books. But after reading Priest by Sierra Simone, and absolutely loving her style of writing, I knew I would make an exception to my no historical romance books, for her Markham Hall series. It definitely didn't hurt that it was also erotica. :)
So first off, when I started this book I noticed immediately this was not what I was expecting. It didn't feel like a historical romance, it felt timeless, I didn't even pay attention to any details of time. Yes the setting was different, and the clothes, maybe a few words were not used today, but apart from that I never noticed, because the story took over, and the characters and I didn't pay attention to he era.
When Ivy Leavold's brother dies and leaves her with no other living relatives, she is spared having to work as a governess at the last minute, by a distant relative through marriage. Ivy's late cousins husband, Julian Markham agrees to take in Ivy and provide her with a home, to try to atone for his past sins.
Once Ivy arrives at Markham Hall, she sees the gothic and dark mansion as somewhere to fall in love with, the peace, and the beautiful grounds are perfect and she is at home immediately.
Yet besides the beautiful grounds, hall, and owner of her new home, Ivy finds herself trying to piece together what happened to her late cousin, and why her death was such a mystery. Yet it would seem Julian Markham is keeping secrets beneath that sexiness. And Ivy is determined to find the, all out.
The master of Markham Hall is another thing all together. He is dark, sullen and mysterious. But he exudes something forbidden and awakens something in Ivy that she has not been aware of in her 19 years. Desire and lust.
Pretty soon it is apparent why this book is nothing like the historical romances that I am aware of. This is erotica in a class of its own. It's sexy, addictive, and almost forbidden. The tension and chemistry between Ivy and Julian is off the wall hot, the scenes are so intense and written so well I almost felt like I was snooping on a real couple.
I would definitely recommend this to Erotica lovers, never mind the fact that this is a historical romance, that does not take away the addictive and incredibly sexy story. Historical romance lovers will still get their fix plus much more, and non historical romance fans can't possibly not enjoy this, it's full on sizzling pages, with a gorgeous dominant alpha. This is a must read!!!
The Education Of Ivy Leavold Review.
Wow, holy hotness!!
This second chapter of the Markham Hall series is even hotter than the first one. I was blown away by the steamy and intense scenes of The Awakening of Ivy Leavold, but The Education completely topped it.
The first part ended with Julian Markham wanting Ivy to marry him, we didn't get an answer from her, it just ended. So straight in to this book, it continues immediately and we get Ivy's answer.
On from Julian wanting Ivy to marry him, we also start to learn in this book the extent of what Julian craves, and how he intends to teach Ivy. Yes, Julian likes it harder, and far more depraved than you would imagine from a victorian era book, but I think that's what makes it all the more enticing and exciting. The fact that you wouldn't expect it in that time, from such gentlemen and ladies in all their splendid and respectable clothing, makes it more naughty, forbidden and incredibly sexy.
So again this book is 130 ish pages of intense heat, and stupidly arousing sex scenes. But alongside that is the incredibly addictive story that was building in the first book. All the mystery surrounding Julian Markham's previous wife is still present, and there's still other characters waiting to put in their opinions and little bits of information, to confuse Ivy even more.
It is almost like the mystery in this book steps up a notch, we do find out some more info, and there is a huge shocking reveal at the end, which I'm not entirely sure Ivy will take all that well, but we will find all out in the next book, which I am starting immediately.
Oh and I have to mention naughty and posh gentleman friend Silas. Did I mention very hot, and likes to share? Well uhh yes, he is yum and I really hope we see more of him.
Definitely recommended, not just for historical romance lovers, but for lovers of very hot erotica, and mystery. This book has it all and much more!!
The Punishment Of Ivy Leavold Review
This third part in the Markham Hall series continues after Ivy leaves Julian, after his revelations about what happened the night Violet died.
Ivy needs time alone to think, about what she wants and how she feels, so decides to spend some time in London with her newly found Aunt.
The time when Ivy is in London, and Julian follows but keeps a distance, at her request, is kind of slow and a little boring compared to how the pace and story has gone so far. I understand the need to have them separate and it all works out really well, but those parts just dragged a little.
Yet everything seems to step up a notch in action and excitement once they attend the Baron's special party, not only is it complete dirty and very sexy, which I have come to learn is what makes these stories so hard to put down, but also it picks up the pace again. Not only is this night of crazy debauchery a pleasant turn towards the end, but also a lot of mystery surrounding the past, and the deaths is now ready to be revealed.
I must admit I was quite shocked when all the reveals started to come out, I hadn't suspected certain characters and it was quite the shocker. But this all led to an extremely gripping end of this book, and I couldn't stop reading.
Again, I loved this third part in this addictive series. They are super fast, sexy reads with an air of mystery and intrigue. I would most definitely recommend them to everyone. Also lovely touch at the end!
The Reclaiming of Ivy Leavold Review
A very short, but still incredibly good final chapter in Ivy and Julian's story.
This final story is only 30 something pages I think, but it shows a small part of their life after everything has settled, and they are now experiencing married life, and parenthood, but also a little glitch in their normally incredible sex life.
As always these characters are perfect, and I love the way Julian deals with things in his own brute, roguish way. Proving how bad, yet so good he can be.
A must read, for this series!!!
Final Thoughts:
An incredibly sexy, romance. Nothing like I expected. It's full of mystery and intrigue, sexy and totally naughty. With gorgeous dresses, and huge mansions. Hugely recommended. 5 stars.
**I was given a copy of this book, in exchange for a fair and honest review**
June 27, 2015
5 Scorching Hot Stars!
This is a highly erotic historical romance. I enjoyed the first two parts that were written in Ivey's POV but I must say that the third and fourth were my favorite because you got Julian's as well which I found to be very informative due to his being such a brooding reserved character in the first and second. Julian is one dirty talking, savagely sexy alpha male. He is possessive but still unbelievably sweet and attentive with Ivey. There is some mystery and drama but over all this story is about these two characters romance and Ivey excepting who she is and her place beside Julian.
All in all, I really enjoyed these books and look forward to reading more from this author. Congratulations Sierra Simone for well written sexy historical romance that will remain one of my all time favorites.
This is a highly erotic historical romance. I enjoyed the first two parts that were written in Ivey's POV but I must say that the third and fourth were my favorite because you got Julian's as well which I found to be very informative due to his being such a brooding reserved character in the first and second. Julian is one dirty talking, savagely sexy alpha male. He is possessive but still unbelievably sweet and attentive with Ivey. There is some mystery and drama but over all this story is about these two characters romance and Ivey excepting who she is and her place beside Julian.
All in all, I really enjoyed these books and look forward to reading more from this author. Congratulations Sierra Simone for well written sexy historical romance that will remain one of my all time favorites.
June 15, 2015
4.5 stars. Great erotic historical bundle!
August 17, 2020
Dirty Jane Eyre vibes. It's exactly what it sounds like. From this particular author I prefer her A Lesson In Thorns book.
August 12, 2015
I knew as soon as I finished Priest that I needed to get back to Sierra Simone's writing as soon as possible, and when this beauty of a box set was offered up for review, I couldn't wait to delve back into Simone's complex and conflicted characters immersed in a connection that is perverse and immoral by society's standards, but it's also one that the main characters can't get enough of because regardless of how wrong society deems it to be, it's what they crave and need in order to feel whole.
In Victorian Society, appearance and social status mean everything - at least that's the facade that must be presented to the eyes of society - those who wield the power to help a woman rise or fall in terms of society's approval. But behind closed doors, individuals' baser needs are explored - it's a place where nothing is deemed uncouth because no one is there to judge - they are there to experience, experiment, and hold nothing back because the constraints of society do not matter.
This is the sensual world Ivy Leavold is thrust into when she becomes an impoverished woman without a home, and her cousin's widower takes her into his home, Markham Hall. It is a place where Ivy is awakened, educated, punished, and reborn, and readers are privy to everything that Ivy welcomes and endures as she gives herself over to her wildest desires and finds the other half of her soul in a man who both loves and wants to tame her wildness - Julian Markham.
But carnal sins are not the only transgressions to occur in Markham Hall. There's a darkness and mystery that surrounds the manor and its owner as well as a plethora of rumored indiscretions and dangerous tendencies. Ivy has wholeheartedly given herself over to Mr. Markham's teachings, but they come at a price and have Ivy questioning everything that makes her feel alive, forcing her to become introspective and understand if what she wants and needs is truly worth the risk.
Sierra Simone explores the human condition at its rawest and most carnal, and I love that she does so in a society that holds themselves in such high regards in terms of their standards and perceived way of living. Ivy is the perfect woman to become the explorer of this unspoken society because she has not been forced into the moral ways of the times. She's been fairly secluded from everything due to the loss of her parents and the ineptitude of her now deceased brother, so in a way, she is ripe for the picking, but only those who have a side to them that is drawn to the kind of impropriety Mr. Markham and his friends partake in can be lured as far in as Ivy goes.
Julian Markham is quite the mysterious character through much of the first book, but once Ivy is immersed into his world and has given herself over to his teachings, readers learn more of his baser needs and desires and the reasons behind his dark and dangerous demeanor. It made perfect sense to me why Simone held off on providing readers with Julian's perspective until Ivy had committed herself to him. We could not be privy to all that is Julian Markham until he got what he wanted from Ivy. Once readers do gain that insight, though, things seem to get more complicated and further questions arise as to his choices and dalliances, but what we also see is that Ivy is truly the woman who completes him...who allows him to show all of himself and not be judged or scorned for what he needs.
Sierra Simone clearly illustrates what both Ivy and Julian get out of their painful/pleasurable encounters and proves that something that allows them both to experience love at its rawest and most basic form should not be judged by others because it's a huge part of who they are and what makes them feel alive.
I absolutely adored the Markham Hall series; it is an intensely provocative and captivating journey that Simone takes Ivy and Julian on, which also contains a good amount of mystery, deception, and drama. I'm so glad that I read the series when it was completed because I would have been incredibly frustrated by where the books stopped, which is a bad thing for me, but it also shows that Simone's writing and character development leave me wanting more, which is never a bad thing!
A complimentary copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
In Victorian Society, appearance and social status mean everything - at least that's the facade that must be presented to the eyes of society - those who wield the power to help a woman rise or fall in terms of society's approval. But behind closed doors, individuals' baser needs are explored - it's a place where nothing is deemed uncouth because no one is there to judge - they are there to experience, experiment, and hold nothing back because the constraints of society do not matter.
This is the sensual world Ivy Leavold is thrust into when she becomes an impoverished woman without a home, and her cousin's widower takes her into his home, Markham Hall. It is a place where Ivy is awakened, educated, punished, and reborn, and readers are privy to everything that Ivy welcomes and endures as she gives herself over to her wildest desires and finds the other half of her soul in a man who both loves and wants to tame her wildness - Julian Markham.
But carnal sins are not the only transgressions to occur in Markham Hall. There's a darkness and mystery that surrounds the manor and its owner as well as a plethora of rumored indiscretions and dangerous tendencies. Ivy has wholeheartedly given herself over to Mr. Markham's teachings, but they come at a price and have Ivy questioning everything that makes her feel alive, forcing her to become introspective and understand if what she wants and needs is truly worth the risk.
Sierra Simone explores the human condition at its rawest and most carnal, and I love that she does so in a society that holds themselves in such high regards in terms of their standards and perceived way of living. Ivy is the perfect woman to become the explorer of this unspoken society because she has not been forced into the moral ways of the times. She's been fairly secluded from everything due to the loss of her parents and the ineptitude of her now deceased brother, so in a way, she is ripe for the picking, but only those who have a side to them that is drawn to the kind of impropriety Mr. Markham and his friends partake in can be lured as far in as Ivy goes.
Julian Markham is quite the mysterious character through much of the first book, but once Ivy is immersed into his world and has given herself over to his teachings, readers learn more of his baser needs and desires and the reasons behind his dark and dangerous demeanor. It made perfect sense to me why Simone held off on providing readers with Julian's perspective until Ivy had committed herself to him. We could not be privy to all that is Julian Markham until he got what he wanted from Ivy. Once readers do gain that insight, though, things seem to get more complicated and further questions arise as to his choices and dalliances, but what we also see is that Ivy is truly the woman who completes him...who allows him to show all of himself and not be judged or scorned for what he needs.
Sierra Simone clearly illustrates what both Ivy and Julian get out of their painful/pleasurable encounters and proves that something that allows them both to experience love at its rawest and most basic form should not be judged by others because it's a huge part of who they are and what makes them feel alive.
I absolutely adored the Markham Hall series; it is an intensely provocative and captivating journey that Simone takes Ivy and Julian on, which also contains a good amount of mystery, deception, and drama. I'm so glad that I read the series when it was completed because I would have been incredibly frustrated by where the books stopped, which is a bad thing for me, but it also shows that Simone's writing and character development leave me wanting more, which is never a bad thing!
A complimentary copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
March 18, 2016
Y O R K S H I R E ● 1 8 7 9
Well, I can honestly say that I wasn't expecting that. Absolutely beautiful. The writing, the charterers, the story. It had it all.
How strange to actually read about places I've actually had the chance to visit. Dalby Forest (had picnics their as a kid.)
York, Scarborough, London. It put an instant smile on my face.
Julian & Ivy, what a journey they've been on. And to finally get to a place where they are both free from secrets and denial, well that was just wonderful to read.
Towards the end, I could definitely relate to aspects of this story. Certain things takeover, their life is somehow more important than yours. I've definitely been in that position, and it takes a great man to find you again. It actually brought some feeling to the surface for me. And in a way it reminded me of how far I've come. How I've changed.
"I had coaxed her back from whatever place she'd gone, and now it was time to remind her of why she would stay."
Totally took over, back to Ivy & Julian.
From the moment they meet the connection is instant. The handsome and secretive Julian was the perfect match to coax Ivy from her shell. They were soul mates through and through.
A great supporting cast of characters, Silas and Brightmore to name but a few. And one of THE best series I've read. I'm actually sad to be finished. 5 stars from me.
Ps. I'm lucky, I'm going to be seeing bluebells in the woods close to home, very soon....late April to May ; )
Well, I can honestly say that I wasn't expecting that. Absolutely beautiful. The writing, the charterers, the story. It had it all.
How strange to actually read about places I've actually had the chance to visit. Dalby Forest (had picnics their as a kid.)
York, Scarborough, London. It put an instant smile on my face.
Julian & Ivy, what a journey they've been on. And to finally get to a place where they are both free from secrets and denial, well that was just wonderful to read.
Towards the end, I could definitely relate to aspects of this story. Certain things takeover, their life is somehow more important than yours. I've definitely been in that position, and it takes a great man to find you again. It actually brought some feeling to the surface for me. And in a way it reminded me of how far I've come. How I've changed.
"I had coaxed her back from whatever place she'd gone, and now it was time to remind her of why she would stay."
Totally took over, back to Ivy & Julian.
From the moment they meet the connection is instant. The handsome and secretive Julian was the perfect match to coax Ivy from her shell. They were soul mates through and through.
A great supporting cast of characters, Silas and Brightmore to name but a few. And one of THE best series I've read. I'm actually sad to be finished. 5 stars from me.
Ps. I'm lucky, I'm going to be seeing bluebells in the woods close to home, very soon....late April to May ; )
September 28, 2015
6 stars!
So I heard about this book from the girls over at Dirty Laundry Review and it's been on my TBR list forever. So when I went on vacation, I decided to take my paperback copy with me. Best Decision Ever!
OMG! This book was insane. I do read historicals but I haven't read much of it this year, so I wasn't quite sure how it would work out. But, I didn't have to worry. Sierra Simone is a genius. How I could have doubted her after Priest is beyond me. So...my apologies Sierra.
This is not your average historical romance peoples! If you are offended by frank depictions of sex - all forms - then this book is not for you.
Hot as the sex scenes were, they weren't all this book was about.
I LOVED that it was about finding and loving yourself as you are - not as society thinks you should be. The hero, Julian, is perfectly content with his life. He knows how he likes his sex and is glad to be among people like him who understand him and his needs. Ivy is a virgin who gets thrust into Julian's world and has to come to terms with what she likes and who she is.
I LOVED her journey and how she didn't just accept Julian's lifestyle. I LOVED that she stood her ground with him and didn't just take things as they were. I LOVED that she was so feisty and fresh and kept Julian on his toes. She was also smart and didn't let people walk over her. She was also very brave; willing to step out of her comfort zone and follow her heart - no matter where it would lead. I would love to have Ivy's courage, resiliency, and capacity to love.
Now Julian. Oh boy...let me tell you, my heart swooned for him. He was a great guy, however, he did have his issues. He hid a particularly significant part of his life from Ivy, and while one could understand his reasons, it still didn't make it right. I LOVED that he fell for Ivy completely and wholeheartedly, but wasn't controlling. I LOVED that, even though he knew that Ivy's decision would crush him, he let her have her freedom to be simply herself and didn't hold her back. I also LOVED that he didn't allow her to "force fit" herself into society's prescribed mold.
This book was great y'all. There was suspense and all my guesses as to the identity of the perpetrator of the crime mentioned in the book were wrong. I also loved Julian's friends. They added a certain vivacity to the book. I'm definitely looking forward to Silas' story.
Thanks Dirty Girls for this wonderful recommendation!!!
So I heard about this book from the girls over at Dirty Laundry Review and it's been on my TBR list forever. So when I went on vacation, I decided to take my paperback copy with me. Best Decision Ever!
OMG! This book was insane. I do read historicals but I haven't read much of it this year, so I wasn't quite sure how it would work out. But, I didn't have to worry. Sierra Simone is a genius. How I could have doubted her after Priest is beyond me. So...my apologies Sierra.
This is not your average historical romance peoples! If you are offended by frank depictions of sex - all forms - then this book is not for you.
Hot as the sex scenes were, they weren't all this book was about.
I LOVED that it was about finding and loving yourself as you are - not as society thinks you should be. The hero, Julian, is perfectly content with his life. He knows how he likes his sex and is glad to be among people like him who understand him and his needs. Ivy is a virgin who gets thrust into Julian's world and has to come to terms with what she likes and who she is.
I LOVED her journey and how she didn't just accept Julian's lifestyle. I LOVED that she stood her ground with him and didn't just take things as they were. I LOVED that she was so feisty and fresh and kept Julian on his toes. She was also smart and didn't let people walk over her. She was also very brave; willing to step out of her comfort zone and follow her heart - no matter where it would lead. I would love to have Ivy's courage, resiliency, and capacity to love.
Now Julian. Oh boy...let me tell you, my heart swooned for him. He was a great guy, however, he did have his issues. He hid a particularly significant part of his life from Ivy, and while one could understand his reasons, it still didn't make it right. I LOVED that he fell for Ivy completely and wholeheartedly, but wasn't controlling. I LOVED that, even though he knew that Ivy's decision would crush him, he let her have her freedom to be simply herself and didn't hold her back. I also LOVED that he didn't allow her to "force fit" herself into society's prescribed mold.
This book was great y'all. There was suspense and all my guesses as to the identity of the perpetrator of the crime mentioned in the book were wrong. I also loved Julian's friends. They added a certain vivacity to the book. I'm definitely looking forward to Silas' story.
Thanks Dirty Girls for this wonderful recommendation!!!
October 11, 2015
I don't think I have ever read a historical romance but I had heard great things about this series and I had read Sierra' book Priest and really liked her writing so it bought I'd give it a try
This was really good and really much more highly erotic I thought it would be.
Ivy having lost her brother and having no other family goes to live with her late cousin Violet's husband Mr. Markham. I think she expected him to be old but of course he was not. Throughout the book you have the developing relationship of virgin Ivy and kinky Julian. Why on earth did I think there wasn't kinky sex back eons ago but apparently there was and it was ultra kinky.
Nonetheless, this was a story wasn't all sex but there was a lot of it, it was a really well researched story. Sierra had to have really done a lot of research about everything from what was proper back then, to different socioeconomic groups to the location (that wasn't in America). I kept thinking that Sierra had to have a lot of knowledge writing this book. On top of that her vocabulary was quite high. This might be the first time I had to get definitions to some of the words.
It's an intelligent love story with a bit mystery/suspense surrounding the death of Ivy's cousin. The books are full of interesting characters.
This is a series but all are out...box set available.
This was really good and really much more highly erotic I thought it would be.
Ivy having lost her brother and having no other family goes to live with her late cousin Violet's husband Mr. Markham. I think she expected him to be old but of course he was not. Throughout the book you have the developing relationship of virgin Ivy and kinky Julian. Why on earth did I think there wasn't kinky sex back eons ago but apparently there was and it was ultra kinky.
Nonetheless, this was a story wasn't all sex but there was a lot of it, it was a really well researched story. Sierra had to have really done a lot of research about everything from what was proper back then, to different socioeconomic groups to the location (that wasn't in America). I kept thinking that Sierra had to have a lot of knowledge writing this book. On top of that her vocabulary was quite high. This might be the first time I had to get definitions to some of the words.
It's an intelligent love story with a bit mystery/suspense surrounding the death of Ivy's cousin. The books are full of interesting characters.
This is a series but all are out...box set available.
September 25, 2015
*received ARC in exchange for an honest review - reviewed by Sonal
O H M Y G O D!!!!
Can I just say that Julian Markham is probably one of the best things to ever happen to the Erotic Scene. I mean gosh this was such an experience. The characters, the setting, the whole story just made me want more.
Julian is the type of man you never mess with. there is this aura around him that screams DANGER. He has secrets, not good ones mind you, and he does everything to protect them. On the other hand, the man is SIN incarnate. He had such a dirty and filthy mouth and man i loved it. I would love me some Julian Markham any day. <3
Ivy Leavold is a woman to behold. She knows what she wants and she knows how to get it. At the same time, she is such an innocent soul that you want to protect her.
This book was liberating, sexually charged and outright seductive. The eerie setting and the gothic suspense were icing on the cake. If there is an erotic historical romance that needs to be read, it is this one.
I already loved Sierra Simone after Priest but after reading this series I am going to grab everything that woman writes without a second thought.
O H M Y G O D!!!!
Can I just say that Julian Markham is probably one of the best things to ever happen to the Erotic Scene. I mean gosh this was such an experience. The characters, the setting, the whole story just made me want more.
Julian is the type of man you never mess with. there is this aura around him that screams DANGER. He has secrets, not good ones mind you, and he does everything to protect them. On the other hand, the man is SIN incarnate. He had such a dirty and filthy mouth and man i loved it. I would love me some Julian Markham any day. <3
Ivy Leavold is a woman to behold. She knows what she wants and she knows how to get it. At the same time, she is such an innocent soul that you want to protect her.
This book was liberating, sexually charged and outright seductive. The eerie setting and the gothic suspense were icing on the cake. If there is an erotic historical romance that needs to be read, it is this one.
I already loved Sierra Simone after Priest but after reading this series I am going to grab everything that woman writes without a second thought.
August 11, 2015
Absolutely Amazing! After Julian's & Ivy's passionate & erotic love story, I can't wait to put my hands on Silas Story! BTW, already pre-order PRIEST!
I LOVE IT!
Ivy and Julian have such a chemistry that they cannot deny it. With this series once I turned the pages I was immediately transported back in time. The story captivated me from the beginning and it keep me intrigued, which was an automatic page turner for me. Well written, I’ll said an excellent editing work.
The story is different for me, in terms of erotic historical novels I mean. The story line is very refreshing, eccentric, very erotic and splendid in every way. How their relationship developed was perfect. All character were interesting and some intriguing (NO WONDER WHY I'M ASKING FOR SILAS STORY ALREADY). The description of the setting, and the background make me fell into the story instantly. I highly recommended!
NOTE: IF YOU'RE NOT INTO DARK EROTIC ROMANCE, PLEASE DON'T EVEN BOTHER!
I LOVE IT!
Ivy and Julian have such a chemistry that they cannot deny it. With this series once I turned the pages I was immediately transported back in time. The story captivated me from the beginning and it keep me intrigued, which was an automatic page turner for me. Well written, I’ll said an excellent editing work.
The story is different for me, in terms of erotic historical novels I mean. The story line is very refreshing, eccentric, very erotic and splendid in every way. How their relationship developed was perfect. All character were interesting and some intriguing (NO WONDER WHY I'M ASKING FOR SILAS STORY ALREADY). The description of the setting, and the background make me fell into the story instantly. I highly recommended!
NOTE: IF YOU'RE NOT INTO DARK EROTIC ROMANCE, PLEASE DON'T EVEN BOTHER!
June 11, 2023
I’ve been in such a book funk. I’ve lost count of the number of books I’ve DNFd this last couple of weeks. Nothing else can cure it other than a re-read of an old favourite.
I remember at the time saying I didn’t want to read historical romance. I have book shelves full of the genuine articles, why would I want to read a modern interpretation?
Then a blog that I adored and a blogger in particular started posting really dirty quotes and I had to have it. It is truly filthy and oh so absolutely divine.
The series also was the start of a great friendship with Sierra. She did actually let me become her Yorkshire consultant after I begged her and gave her some pressed Yorkshire bluebells.
I will forever be Sierra’s Yorkshire wild cat.
I remember at the time saying I didn’t want to read historical romance. I have book shelves full of the genuine articles, why would I want to read a modern interpretation?
Then a blog that I adored and a blogger in particular started posting really dirty quotes and I had to have it. It is truly filthy and oh so absolutely divine.
The series also was the start of a great friendship with Sierra. She did actually let me become her Yorkshire consultant after I begged her and gave her some pressed Yorkshire bluebells.
I will forever be Sierra’s Yorkshire wild cat.
September 15, 2015
I got to read this free,there are a lot of good reviews, I went back and forth if I wanted to read this because I usually don't like when the H shares the h....It just bugs me,but I went ahead and downloaded it and so glad I did. Wonderful writing and I so enjoyed Julian and Ivy's story. I exceptionally liked how the author wrote Ivy and her lustful thought's and how she wanted to do all of the naughtiness. Even the sharing part with Silas was not distasteful to me,and I think the way Ivy was written it all made sense that she would try everything her greedy body wanted and of course Julian wanted to give her everything because he finally found his other half, Ivy completed his darkness and she loved it. Julian and Ivy were truly meant to be. A hot sexy read:))
April 10, 2016
Sierra Simone brings the heat in this opening book of the series. I love her writing style and her ability to pull you into the story. Is it a murder mystery or is it a hot, sizzling romance? The answer is both and that is why so many love this series. One final comment...Simone has a special ability to make you feel the sexual escapades in her book. You feel each touch and you experience the emotions of a first sexual experience. It was hot. Her writing actually had me relive the wonder of my first sexual exploration (in a very good way). Now that is good writing! On to book two.
July 12, 2015
Great series, I loved that it was historical and had an edgy Gothic feel to it. The relationship between Ivy and Julian isn't just love, nor is it all romance. It's very erotic and good knowledge of D/s with bdsm themes as well as the love they share for one another. It's the type of book that pulls you in right away. I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
March 8, 2018
Forget E L James and Sylvia Day - Sierra Simone is probably the hottest author writing in the field today. Julian Markham is a seriously dark and screwed up hero. Part of me wanted to hate this because his treatment of Ivy is at times brutal - and I wasn't sure how I felt about his possessiveness and at the same time voyeuristic tenancies - he does like to share although actual penetration by anyone else is out of the question.
What I think saves this is the heroine Ivy - she is really strong and Julian's match in every way. He may be brutal but she clearly loves every minute of his dominance. I was rolling my eyes a bit where she thinks he might have murdered his two previous wives and yet still wants him desperately but she does leave him to sort out her feelings and Julian's behaviour while she's doing it made me revise my negative feelings for him. The last volume where he has to get his Ivy back after she becomes overwhelmed with motherhood shows his tender and loving side and how he knows exactly what his wife needs.
Couldn't put this series down. It's scorching hot with emotionally rich characters and has a solid plot to boot.
What I think saves this is the heroine Ivy - she is really strong and Julian's match in every way. He may be brutal but she clearly loves every minute of his dominance. I was rolling my eyes a bit where she thinks he might have murdered his two previous wives and yet still wants him desperately but she does leave him to sort out her feelings and Julian's behaviour while she's doing it made me revise my negative feelings for him. The last volume where he has to get his Ivy back after she becomes overwhelmed with motherhood shows his tender and loving side and how he knows exactly what his wife needs.
Couldn't put this series down. It's scorching hot with emotionally rich characters and has a solid plot to boot.
November 13, 2019
If you’ve ever read a Gothic novel and wished it was also an erotic romance, this is the series for you! Think kinky Jane Eyre—it's not a retelling per se but Ivy is a destitute orphan taken in by her cousin's husband Julian Markham. A cousin who just happened to have died under suspicious circumstances, with plenty of people pointing the finger at Julian.
This was super steamy and angsty as all get out. Everything you expect from Sierra Simone. Ivy and Julian have amazing chemistry, especially once Ivy gets over her hangups about being with her dead cousin’s husband.
My one quibble is they know Violet died while riding Julian’s horse and that the saddle had been cut. But no one seems overly concerned that Julian was the one being targeted and that they should be keeping a close eye out for murder suspects. This lack of oversight plays out as one might guess.
CW: death of loved ones, concern a loved one was murdered, consensual nonconsent, kidnapping, arson, immolation, unplanned pregnancy
This was super steamy and angsty as all get out. Everything you expect from Sierra Simone. Ivy and Julian have amazing chemistry, especially once Ivy gets over her hangups about being with her dead cousin’s husband.
My one quibble is they know Violet died while riding Julian’s horse and that the saddle had been cut. But no one seems overly concerned that Julian was the one being targeted and that they should be keeping a close eye out for murder suspects. This lack of oversight plays out as one might guess.
CW: death of loved ones, concern a loved one was murdered, consensual nonconsent, kidnapping, arson, immolation, unplanned pregnancy
December 9, 2018
Oh. My. Oh. My. Oh. My!
Historical, erotic, and very naughty! Julian Markham takes in Ivy Leavold after her brother’s death. Ivy was destitute and alone when Julian agreed to let the cousin of his newly dead wife live in his home. After a short time they are engaged and in a deep lust/love with one another.
It is a series of four books. You must read all of them to get the whole story. Definitely recommend!
Historical, erotic, and very naughty! Julian Markham takes in Ivy Leavold after her brother’s death. Ivy was destitute and alone when Julian agreed to let the cousin of his newly dead wife live in his home. After a short time they are engaged and in a deep lust/love with one another.
It is a series of four books. You must read all of them to get the whole story. Definitely recommend!
January 30, 2018
I haven’t read a historical romance in years but I had read this one since it was written by Sierra Simone. This erotic series tells a story of a young woman who meets her dead cousin’s husband. Julian takes in Ivy as her protector since she is homeless and penny less. Soon he awakens desires in her that she never knew existed. In this Victorian era, there are elements of BDSM and a sex club of sorts. There is mystery, angst and steamy scenes. I enjoyed reading the series and I recommend it.
May 1, 2023
I didn't really know what to expect from these books, as this was my first time reading this author, and I LOVED it. It unlocked kinks I didn't even know I had and I'm gonna need this author to teach others how to write a good spicy scene because these scenes were AMAZING. Every little detail mentioned, from what the positions were, to where they were in the room, that helped bring these scenes to life, literally 10/10 🙌.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2019
These books have been on my TBR for quite some time and I finally got to them. Ivy Leavold is young and hasn’t had the life of most. She shows up at Julian Markham’s home and quickly learns she doesn’t even know herself. This journey she was on was as much about her as it was in finding the one that completes her. These books held me captivated and I enjoyed finally getting to read them!
January 2, 2022
Not quite an adaptation of Jane Eyre, but more than an homage to Jane Eyre. It’s an interesting take, but it doesn’t respect the things about Jane Eyre that I respect about Jane Eyre, which is fine, but also materially hindered my reading experience.
October 21, 2025
Old world values, knowing what's expected and proper, particularly for women. If you're a fan of Sierra Simone, then you probably have a darker, deviant side yourself, and she's here to exploit that! A spicy series to get you all hot and bothered, and feel good about not being like everyone else.
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