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Spies and Lovers #2
A Brazen Bargain
Love soothes the deepest of scars.
Minerva Bellingham is at her wits' end. Her younger brother, Simon, will have them penniless and on the streets if his extravagant gambling habit isn't curtailed. An enormous debt to Lord Rafe Drummond is the final indignity. Signing over her dowry is their only choice. Until Lord Drummond suggests something much more scandalous. She can keep her dowry-in exchange for the Bellinghams working three months as a housemaid and stable boy.
Scarred from his service to the Crown, Rafe recognizes the young Simon Bellingham has the makings of a good duke. Minerva is a different story. Her pure, delicate beauty only underscores Rafe's tarnished, bleak soul. Yet he delights in cracking Minerva's icy reserve to reveal a fiery, stubborn woman. And Minerva discovers the gruff master of Wintermarsh has the heart of a poet. But before they can find a future safe in each other's arms, a menace from Simon's licentious past slithers back into their lives, forcing Rafe to plan the most important rescue mission of his life.
Warning: Contains a paragon of the beau monde who gets the hang of polishing silver, and a master of the house who'd like her to make his bed-preferably with him in it. Also passion unleashed with the mere touch of a finger. Readers are encouraged to swoon.
Minerva Bellingham is at her wits' end. Her younger brother, Simon, will have them penniless and on the streets if his extravagant gambling habit isn't curtailed. An enormous debt to Lord Rafe Drummond is the final indignity. Signing over her dowry is their only choice. Until Lord Drummond suggests something much more scandalous. She can keep her dowry-in exchange for the Bellinghams working three months as a housemaid and stable boy.
Scarred from his service to the Crown, Rafe recognizes the young Simon Bellingham has the makings of a good duke. Minerva is a different story. Her pure, delicate beauty only underscores Rafe's tarnished, bleak soul. Yet he delights in cracking Minerva's icy reserve to reveal a fiery, stubborn woman. And Minerva discovers the gruff master of Wintermarsh has the heart of a poet. But before they can find a future safe in each other's arms, a menace from Simon's licentious past slithers back into their lives, forcing Rafe to plan the most important rescue mission of his life.
Warning: Contains a paragon of the beau monde who gets the hang of polishing silver, and a master of the house who'd like her to make his bed-preferably with him in it. Also passion unleashed with the mere touch of a finger. Readers are encouraged to swoon.
298 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2016
About the author
Laura Trentham
43 books909 followersAuthor of smart, sexy Southern contemporary romance, Regency historicals, & heartfelt Women's Fiction
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
February 4, 2016
5 - "Following the proprieties has never been my strong suit." Stars!
Laura Trentham absolutely rocked my socks off with the second book in the Spies and Lovers series. I really enjoyed An Indecent Invitation (the first book), but A Brazen Bargain was literally a struggle to put down, I enjoyed it that much.
"I find I’m rather partial to brutes."
Rafe and Minerva featured a little in the first book, in that Rafe was Lily’s brother, Minerva her friend, and Grey the man Lily loves is Rafe’s best friend.
Rafe Drummond was a temptation she wasn’t sure she could give up.
You are lead to think that the man behind the scars is as dark and brooding as his exterior makes you assume, and in this story you are given the reasonings and back ground into why he is as he is.
I loved that Minerva challenged him on his ornery personality, and the fact that in this book she is indirectly indebted to him, it just made the chemistry and verbal sparring between them even more interesting, and the author did a superb job in keeping things building between them without rushing to the main event (so to speak), the story as a whole is so much more than an attraction between two people, and the layers that Laura built around that just gave it such a vivacity and beguiling depth.
"Let me take care of you."
I am not a huge Historical Romance reader, but I cannot recommend this series highly enough. The author manages to keep the feeling of Historical in relation to the language, descriptions locales etc, but challenges the normal expectations in that her characters are strong, her female leads willful, intelligent and full of spark and mettle.
Her unmarred purity only underscored his tarnished soul a hundred fold.
Minerva faced challenges, and dealt with them herself, no deferring to Rafe or her brother for guidance, and I loved the depth of character Laura gave Rafe, yes he was strong, dominant and a little bit naughty, but there was a vulnerability and charm to him as well. I absolutely loved them both, and when they finally worked out their feelings for each other were a match… So, so sexy!
"There’s beauty in the darkness. You just have to look a bit harder."
I so hope that we get to return to this series soon, there are certainly more characters with stories to be told.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Laura Trentham absolutely rocked my socks off with the second book in the Spies and Lovers series. I really enjoyed An Indecent Invitation (the first book), but A Brazen Bargain was literally a struggle to put down, I enjoyed it that much.
"I find I’m rather partial to brutes."
Rafe and Minerva featured a little in the first book, in that Rafe was Lily’s brother, Minerva her friend, and Grey the man Lily loves is Rafe’s best friend.
Rafe Drummond was a temptation she wasn’t sure she could give up.
You are lead to think that the man behind the scars is as dark and brooding as his exterior makes you assume, and in this story you are given the reasonings and back ground into why he is as he is.
I loved that Minerva challenged him on his ornery personality, and the fact that in this book she is indirectly indebted to him, it just made the chemistry and verbal sparring between them even more interesting, and the author did a superb job in keeping things building between them without rushing to the main event (so to speak), the story as a whole is so much more than an attraction between two people, and the layers that Laura built around that just gave it such a vivacity and beguiling depth.
"Let me take care of you."
I am not a huge Historical Romance reader, but I cannot recommend this series highly enough. The author manages to keep the feeling of Historical in relation to the language, descriptions locales etc, but challenges the normal expectations in that her characters are strong, her female leads willful, intelligent and full of spark and mettle.
Her unmarred purity only underscored his tarnished soul a hundred fold.
Minerva faced challenges, and dealt with them herself, no deferring to Rafe or her brother for guidance, and I loved the depth of character Laura gave Rafe, yes he was strong, dominant and a little bit naughty, but there was a vulnerability and charm to him as well. I absolutely loved them both, and when they finally worked out their feelings for each other were a match… So, so sexy!
"There’s beauty in the darkness. You just have to look a bit harder."
I so hope that we get to return to this series soon, there are certainly more characters with stories to be told.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 26, 2016
Where in the previous book we had a unsatisfactory (at least for me) mystery, here we have a plain, simple, great love story!
This book is very neat to perfection. If not for this: it would have been au pair with Kelly Bowen, Courtnel Milan & co.!
Still, I love both the hero, Rafe and the heroine, Minerva to pieces!
Their story strats with as from enemy to lovers, but the process is wonderfully described and I enjoyed every single page!
A well worth read! I hope the next book in the series will be as beautiful as this one!
This book is very neat to perfection. If not for this: it would have been au pair with Kelly Bowen, Courtnel Milan & co.!
Still, I love both the hero, Rafe and the heroine, Minerva to pieces!
Their story strats with as from enemy to lovers, but the process is wonderfully described and I enjoyed every single page!
A well worth read! I hope the next book in the series will be as beautiful as this one!
October 12, 2021
3 stars
If the Hero weren't that much of an ass and stupid decrepit maybe this could've been a 4 stars.
If the Hero weren't that much of an ass and stupid decrepit maybe this could've been a 4 stars.
March 5, 2023
5-It-Was-Better-Than-I-Expected-Stars
My first from this author, and the blurb is what pulled me in.
My Thoughts
- It was an expectedly sweet story of the personal development of people battling their demons.
- I recently helped my brother out of a scrape, so I instantly connected with Minerva. I related to the elder sister's protective instinct, and I loved her for it. She was an interestingly well-thought-out character. I adored her shameless attraction towards Rafe, her openness with the servants, and her willingness to work out the bargain.
- Rafe was not just your average spy hero. He had layers to him. He was sensitive to people, genuinely kind, and willing to go above and beyond to help everyone, endearingly so.
- The romance was gradual, sweet and sexy. There was a lovely dynamic to them coming together.
- I enjoyed the supporting cast enough to want to read the series! Bonus - It's on KU.
*I love what this author is writing! On the next one...
My first from this author, and the blurb is what pulled me in.
My Thoughts
- It was an expectedly sweet story of the personal development of people battling their demons.
- I recently helped my brother out of a scrape, so I instantly connected with Minerva. I related to the elder sister's protective instinct, and I loved her for it. She was an interestingly well-thought-out character. I adored her shameless attraction towards Rafe, her openness with the servants, and her willingness to work out the bargain.
- Rafe was not just your average spy hero. He had layers to him. He was sensitive to people, genuinely kind, and willing to go above and beyond to help everyone, endearingly so.
- The romance was gradual, sweet and sexy. There was a lovely dynamic to them coming together.
- I enjoyed the supporting cast enough to want to read the series! Bonus - It's on KU.
*I love what this author is writing! On the next one...
July 22, 2022
Liked it more on my 2nd read. She's socially unpopular, viewed as a managing woman. The H steps up to help her brother, falls in love with her but acts like a brute. He's a good man, badly traumatised. She loved him and knew he needed her. Loved how the H helped her brother, and that it was not just a quick fix.
February 6, 2016
Soooo good! This is one of the rare examples of a story where everything falls in the right place. I'm in love. I'd like more books like this one.
The plot is what I'm always looking for in romances, passion, struggle, a-satisfying-but-not-excessive dose of misunderstanding, a strong-willed heroine and a tormented hero. And many other things.
Let's be honest, I was craving for this love story from the first book in the series and therefore I had high expectations.
The hero, Rafe, is hot! (Fan needed here.) He is a charming spectrum of dichotomies, stubborn and so adorably insecure, rough and gentle, bitter and sweet, impetuous and cautious, extremely passionate but also detached.
The heroine is his perfect match and they are adorable together.
The plot is funny, original and fast-paced. I liked Simon, the heroine's brother, a lot and I'm waiting for him and his story!
The only thing I have some doubts about is the "historical" imprecision in regards to the noble titles and the society precepts of the regency era. I some parts I had the impression they weren't observed.
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February 27, 2016
It's okay...
This is the second book in the 'Spies and Lovers' series and, while I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, I just had a hard time swallowing the 'brazen bargain' that brought thenH/h together in this novel. Still, it's reasonably well written, the characters are likable and the plot moves along nicely even lacking any kind of substantial secondary plot. It also it's feels as if the author put her whole attention and depth of talent in the first novel and this one was written as an afterthought.
Bottom line: if you are willing to stretch your credulity, you'll likely enjoy it.
This is the second book in the 'Spies and Lovers' series and, while I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, I just had a hard time swallowing the 'brazen bargain' that brought thenH/h together in this novel. Still, it's reasonably well written, the characters are likable and the plot moves along nicely even lacking any kind of substantial secondary plot. It also it's feels as if the author put her whole attention and depth of talent in the first novel and this one was written as an afterthought.
Bottom line: if you are willing to stretch your credulity, you'll likely enjoy it.
October 10, 2018
A SOLID 4.5 STARS!
I THINK THIS IS MY FAVOURITE STORY IN THIS SERIES. GROUCHY, BEAR-ISH BUT GOOD LOOKING HERO WHO PLANS TO ANTAGONIZE THE HEROINE? CHECK! BEAUTIFUL YET VULNERABLE BUT STRONG WILLED HEROINE WHO PLANS TO DEFY HIM? CHECK! ADD IN THE MOST BIZARRE SITUATION OF A LADY FORCED TO WORK AS A MAID AT AN EARL'S HOME? I AM SO ON!
OUR HERO is on the way to being an alcoholic with the speed that he's been indulging or rather forces himself to drink in order to take away the pain and demons that haunt him post war. I'm not sure if he suffers from PTSD or something...but it was definitely a horror that doesn't let him forget all the souls that he has taken during the war. Thus, explains his surly and ungrateful attitude even towards his own sister Lily when he's soused. When the Duke of Bellingham loses a game and owes him money, his sister, the Ice Queen Minerva pays him a visit to bargain into letting her brother off the hook. Despite his alcohol rages, Rafe isn't irresponsible and he's rather good at managing his own estate. Seeing part of himself in the young Duke, he decides to teach the fellow a good lesson and also perhaps getting a bit of childish fun at Minerva - Simon to work in the stables, and she to work as a house maid. His chemistry with Minerva was sensual and blazing at the same time but what I loved the most were the tender moments they spent whilst getting to know the other. And boy, did Rafe found out that Minerva is anything but an Ice Queen, just a poor woman who is trying to find her own place in society.
OUR HEROINE is as beautiful on the inside as she is outside. I don't blame her for her strict nature and also need to abide by the rules. She plays by society's rules and puts on a facade in order to not shame herself...basically she was a bit of a hypocrite in the ton. But away from London, she finds that she does enjoy the countryside, especially when it comes with a certain impossible Earl who sets her on fire both literally and figuratively. I can actually see her come to life whenever she engages in a battle of words and wits with Rafe. Minerva has only Simon in the world, her younger brother and she is terribly worried when he's wasting away from gambling and drinking...just because of some bad influences. I thought that Rafe's influence in their life proved to be rather ingenious and also damned sweet.
OVERALL this was quite a touching story in terms of two people who clearly need one another coming together. The friction between them just made it all the more sweeter and passionate when they did have their first kiss. Both were obviously not expecting a romance to blossom between themselves! And you get to meet Lily and Gray again here. I think this author does an amazing job at weaving emotion gradually without jumping or skipping necessary moments that make the love all the more real. I liked how the sex scenes weren't also limited, but were also more inventive than the usual historical romance where the hero just sticks it in and its done. This one was more special. And I truly recommend this to those who don't make it a habit of reading HR novels.
I THINK THIS IS MY FAVOURITE STORY IN THIS SERIES. GROUCHY, BEAR-ISH BUT GOOD LOOKING HERO WHO PLANS TO ANTAGONIZE THE HEROINE? CHECK! BEAUTIFUL YET VULNERABLE BUT STRONG WILLED HEROINE WHO PLANS TO DEFY HIM? CHECK! ADD IN THE MOST BIZARRE SITUATION OF A LADY FORCED TO WORK AS A MAID AT AN EARL'S HOME? I AM SO ON!
OUR HERO is on the way to being an alcoholic with the speed that he's been indulging or rather forces himself to drink in order to take away the pain and demons that haunt him post war. I'm not sure if he suffers from PTSD or something...but it was definitely a horror that doesn't let him forget all the souls that he has taken during the war. Thus, explains his surly and ungrateful attitude even towards his own sister Lily when he's soused. When the Duke of Bellingham loses a game and owes him money, his sister, the Ice Queen Minerva pays him a visit to bargain into letting her brother off the hook. Despite his alcohol rages, Rafe isn't irresponsible and he's rather good at managing his own estate. Seeing part of himself in the young Duke, he decides to teach the fellow a good lesson and also perhaps getting a bit of childish fun at Minerva - Simon to work in the stables, and she to work as a house maid. His chemistry with Minerva was sensual and blazing at the same time but what I loved the most were the tender moments they spent whilst getting to know the other. And boy, did Rafe found out that Minerva is anything but an Ice Queen, just a poor woman who is trying to find her own place in society.
OUR HEROINE is as beautiful on the inside as she is outside. I don't blame her for her strict nature and also need to abide by the rules. She plays by society's rules and puts on a facade in order to not shame herself...basically she was a bit of a hypocrite in the ton. But away from London, she finds that she does enjoy the countryside, especially when it comes with a certain impossible Earl who sets her on fire both literally and figuratively. I can actually see her come to life whenever she engages in a battle of words and wits with Rafe. Minerva has only Simon in the world, her younger brother and she is terribly worried when he's wasting away from gambling and drinking...just because of some bad influences. I thought that Rafe's influence in their life proved to be rather ingenious and also damned sweet.
OVERALL this was quite a touching story in terms of two people who clearly need one another coming together. The friction between them just made it all the more sweeter and passionate when they did have their first kiss. Both were obviously not expecting a romance to blossom between themselves! And you get to meet Lily and Gray again here. I think this author does an amazing job at weaving emotion gradually without jumping or skipping necessary moments that make the love all the more real. I liked how the sex scenes weren't also limited, but were also more inventive than the usual historical romance where the hero just sticks it in and its done. This one was more special. And I truly recommend this to those who don't make it a habit of reading HR novels.
February 8, 2016
Didn't finish at page45. I really liked the first book in this series so I was looking forward to this book because it is about an unlikely pair falling in love. But I'm so tired of huffy female leads who are rude and prudish toward the male love interest. I get that authors are trying to make a bickering couple go from intolerance to love but I wish they would do it without making the female seem just completely bitchy. You can create a strong willed, feisty female without making her only act snooty and rude. I want my females to be funny witty fun and clever. I liked this authors lead in her first book but I did not like this girl Minerva. She's considered the ice queen by everyone and she honestly is. I was expecting that the author would show that she was actually not so bad when you get to know her and she does do that when Minerva is interacting with the other servants but not when she is interacting with rafe, the love interest. Of course with him she's always calling him names and acting all high and mighty with him even though he's been nothing but accommodating. Yes rafe is making her brother do manual labor but youd think she'd be grateful to him for keeping her brother out of trouble and teaching him to be a man. And Grateful that he isn't making her pay off her debt with all of dowry money. He's not the most sensitive person but still he's at least given them an opportunity. But that aside, the book is well written and if you aren't sick of uptight female leads like I am you'd probably enjoy this book. I've just read too many like this and when she hasn't interacted with the love interest in any other way besides shrewdly after 45 pages I lose interest.
February 6, 2020
I am not a writer and never could be. Even reading more than 350 books a year, I could not do what these authors do. With that being said, I don’t write great reviews. If I like or love a book; I just say “Love this book. Get it” or something along those lines. :) I am trying to be better about my reviews because I noticed some authors do actually see them.
With that being said, Laura Trentham is a new author to me and once I read her first book I had to get all she had. I am loving these stories, the characters, the writing, the sex…all of it. They catch my attention from the beginning which I love because then I don’t want to put it down. Can’t wait to start “A Reckless Redemption”. I know 4 and 5 aren’t out yet but have them preordered. I can't wait.
The sad part is she so far only has 3 books currently out and even though 4 and 5 are coming, it's not enough. I would love to see more books from her.
With that being said, Laura Trentham is a new author to me and once I read her first book I had to get all she had. I am loving these stories, the characters, the writing, the sex…all of it. They catch my attention from the beginning which I love because then I don’t want to put it down. Can’t wait to start “A Reckless Redemption”. I know 4 and 5 aren’t out yet but have them preordered. I can't wait.
The sad part is she so far only has 3 books currently out and even though 4 and 5 are coming, it's not enough. I would love to see more books from her.
October 3, 2021
The first part was good, when Minerva was working a housemaid for Rafe.
She was brave, fierce and backboned. But right after he ''touched her'' and feed with her with his body (ugh) she became the typical HR doormat.
You know, when the heroine realises right after sex that, ''she loves him" -_-
I didn't like Rafe. First the way he treated Minerva: he punished her for her brother's fault. I had no issues with Simon coming to work for him, but Minerva should have been a guest. Rafe was uncouth and silly, how can you treat a lady like that? Simply thinking of how he ruined her hands made me cringe!
And he never groveled! He acted like an ass because he was insecure and wanted to drive her away, even after she confessed her love, but no, someone had to come to get him to Minerva at the end.
Lame! Typical tortured hero who thinks he doesnt deserve love but is willing to ruin an innocent -_-
2.5 stars
She was brave, fierce and backboned. But right after he ''touched her'' and feed with her with his body (ugh) she became the typical HR doormat.
You know, when the heroine realises right after sex that, ''she loves him" -_-
I didn't like Rafe. First the way he treated Minerva: he punished her for her brother's fault. I had no issues with Simon coming to work for him, but Minerva should have been a guest. Rafe was uncouth and silly, how can you treat a lady like that? Simply thinking of how he ruined her hands made me cringe!
And he never groveled! He acted like an ass because he was insecure and wanted to drive her away, even after she confessed her love, but no, someone had to come to get him to Minerva at the end.
Lame! Typical tortured hero who thinks he doesnt deserve love but is willing to ruin an innocent -_-
2.5 stars
December 2, 2021
A Debt 💰To Be Paid Leads to Love 💘
ADULT Historical Recency Romance 💕and Adventure💪🔪
Lord Rafe Drummond🐺🍆⛲💪🔫🔪 is a former spy and assassin💀💪🔫🔪. He still has connections .
When he sees Simon Bellingham , a young foolish Duke, being fleeced in a card game, Rafe🐺🍆⛲💪🔪🔫 cheats to win the game and takes Simon under his wing to repay his massive debt. It's that, or total ruination for both Simon and his innocent sister.
Along with Simon comes his hostile sister , Minerva💃💋. Rafe 🐺🍆⛲💪🔫🔪 puts her to work in his household and Simon to work in the stables.
Fun book for all lovers of ADULT historical romance 💕.
ADULT Historical Recency Romance 💕and Adventure💪🔪
Lord Rafe Drummond🐺🍆⛲💪🔫🔪 is a former spy and assassin💀💪🔫🔪. He still has connections .
When he sees Simon Bellingham , a young foolish Duke, being fleeced in a card game, Rafe🐺🍆⛲💪🔪🔫 cheats to win the game and takes Simon under his wing to repay his massive debt. It's that, or total ruination for both Simon and his innocent sister.
Along with Simon comes his hostile sister , Minerva💃💋. Rafe 🐺🍆⛲💪🔫🔪 puts her to work in his household and Simon to work in the stables.
Fun book for all lovers of ADULT historical romance 💕.
November 8, 2016
The bargain that yields mutual satisfaction is the only one that is apt to be repeated. - B. C. Forbes
I dove into A BRAZEN BARGAIN after reading a contemporary novel of an Army veteran's struggle with PTSD. It put me in the mindset to recognize that veterans of the past, including those from the Napoleonic Wars, also suffered from PTSD. But it was something not discussed by polite society. Enter Lord Rafe Drummond, the hero in A BRAZEN BARGAIN. He stands on the edge of society, knowing the ton would turn away from his gruesome scar. Rafe retreats to his family's estate, Wintermarsh, where he seeks solace. By day, he works the land alongside the tenants. At night, he slips into alcoholic haze to chase away the nightmares from combat. Rafe was a secondary character in AN INDECENT INVITATION, Book 1 in the Spies and Lovers series. He watched his sister fall in love with his fellow soldier, Gray Masterson, as the couple solved the mystery of his missing father.
Now it's time for Rafe find what is missing in his life - love. From the shadows of London, he spies the drunken Simon Bellingham, a young man coming into his title as a Duke, on the verge of loosing his inheritance at a gaming hell. Rafe joins the game, outmaneuvers those seeking to manipulate Simon, and wins a voucher from the young Duke. The following morning, Rafe prepares to release Simon from the debut until his older sister, Minerva, appears on his behalf. It is clear she has managed Simon's life (and their family's estate) since the untimely passing of their parents. Known as the Ice Princess among the ton, Minerva strikes a nerve with Rafe. In turn, he proposes a brazen bargain - both Minerva and Simon will work off the debt for the next three months on his estate.
Trentham delivers a compelling novel with hints of Gothic romance and Austen wit. No doubt Minerva is the beauty and Rafe is the beast. But not all is rosy in the beauty's life. Aside from her gambling brother, she is a woman before her time in Regency England. Minerva has become the Ice Princess to protect herself from disappointment. Her icy demeanor thaws as she interacts with Jenny, a cheery chamber maid from the village. In fact, she realizes her own privilege as a lady and rethinks how she treats her servants back in London. Minerva still frets about the harsh work which Simon must face under Rafe's tutelage. As Simon begins to mature, Minerva recognizes that Rafe's actions are not coldhearted revenge, but the thoughtful effort of an older brother to instill discipline. Rest assured, Rafe does not see Minerva as a sister, but rather a passionate woman who would not be a appreciated by London's dandies.
I appreciate that Trentham allows the characters to be imperfect. She doesn't wave her magic author wand and cure Rafe of his PTSD. Instead, he learns to manage it with the loving support of his family. For me, A BRAZEN BARGAIN was more than a Regency romance novel. It was a reading journey which offered hope and demonstrated acceptance.
I received a print copy from the author for an honest review.
I dove into A BRAZEN BARGAIN after reading a contemporary novel of an Army veteran's struggle with PTSD. It put me in the mindset to recognize that veterans of the past, including those from the Napoleonic Wars, also suffered from PTSD. But it was something not discussed by polite society. Enter Lord Rafe Drummond, the hero in A BRAZEN BARGAIN. He stands on the edge of society, knowing the ton would turn away from his gruesome scar. Rafe retreats to his family's estate, Wintermarsh, where he seeks solace. By day, he works the land alongside the tenants. At night, he slips into alcoholic haze to chase away the nightmares from combat. Rafe was a secondary character in AN INDECENT INVITATION, Book 1 in the Spies and Lovers series. He watched his sister fall in love with his fellow soldier, Gray Masterson, as the couple solved the mystery of his missing father.
Now it's time for Rafe find what is missing in his life - love. From the shadows of London, he spies the drunken Simon Bellingham, a young man coming into his title as a Duke, on the verge of loosing his inheritance at a gaming hell. Rafe joins the game, outmaneuvers those seeking to manipulate Simon, and wins a voucher from the young Duke. The following morning, Rafe prepares to release Simon from the debut until his older sister, Minerva, appears on his behalf. It is clear she has managed Simon's life (and their family's estate) since the untimely passing of their parents. Known as the Ice Princess among the ton, Minerva strikes a nerve with Rafe. In turn, he proposes a brazen bargain - both Minerva and Simon will work off the debt for the next three months on his estate.
Trentham delivers a compelling novel with hints of Gothic romance and Austen wit. No doubt Minerva is the beauty and Rafe is the beast. But not all is rosy in the beauty's life. Aside from her gambling brother, she is a woman before her time in Regency England. Minerva has become the Ice Princess to protect herself from disappointment. Her icy demeanor thaws as she interacts with Jenny, a cheery chamber maid from the village. In fact, she realizes her own privilege as a lady and rethinks how she treats her servants back in London. Minerva still frets about the harsh work which Simon must face under Rafe's tutelage. As Simon begins to mature, Minerva recognizes that Rafe's actions are not coldhearted revenge, but the thoughtful effort of an older brother to instill discipline. Rest assured, Rafe does not see Minerva as a sister, but rather a passionate woman who would not be a appreciated by London's dandies.
I appreciate that Trentham allows the characters to be imperfect. She doesn't wave her magic author wand and cure Rafe of his PTSD. Instead, he learns to manage it with the loving support of his family. For me, A BRAZEN BARGAIN was more than a Regency romance novel. It was a reading journey which offered hope and demonstrated acceptance.
I received a print copy from the author for an honest review.
January 22, 2016
It was the little things that stuck in my head while reading this book, and sadly not in a good way. If you’re a stickler for accuracy and period detail, this book might not be for you. Along with my usual fall/autumn twitch, there were a couple of mix-ups between trice and thrice, I developed a real hatred of the word cabin, which was a little irrational but given the context felt off to me, and there were also a few other things here and there. As I said, little things, but they kept pulling me out of the story.
Probably because this tale didn’t really hold my interest as much as I’d hoped. While the conceit of having a duke and his sister work as servants was intriguing, I wasn’t all that fond of Rafe or Minerva at first, and Simon is a bumbling fool. Rafe has a dark and torturous past which makes him grumpy and rude, while Minerva has had control of her brother’s estates for so long she’s become arrogant, disdainful and also a bit rude. The pair of them are quite well matched, and it was easy to see why Simon had turned out the way he had thanks to Minerva’s handling of him.
Things do settle down as the book progresses and all three characters develop quite nicely. Rafe isn’t nearly so harsh, Minerva isn’t as arrogant and Simon actually grows up a little. I quite enjoyed Minerva’s time with the servants, even if she fitted in rather too easily with the staff – I would have expected local dialect/accents to have maybe tripped her up a bit, while housemaid Jenny has a rather extensive vocabulary that seemed rather out of place. There also didn’t seem to be all that many staff members for a house the size of Wintermarsh.
As the story progressed, I often found myself struggling to maintain an interest. I put it down at the halfway point unable to believe there was still half a book to go. Barely anything happens. Yes, Minerva and Rafe develop a relationship, but it’s slow going at first – before taking a couple of swift bounds forwards – and I kept waiting for something bad to happen just to liven things up. If I’d liked the characters more, no doubt I’d have been more invested in the romance, but mostly by the end I was just willing it to finish.
So overall this was just about okay for me. It’s an interesting idea and a good story, but it dragged in places and left me too much time to focus on the tiny details. Plenty of ground work was laid for future stories, and there’s a couple of appearances from the characters of the previous book, so fans of the series will probably love it. If you’re looking for a historical romance that’s high on the heat and romance, but less on the history, then this will deliver that – I just hope you like the characters more than I did.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Probably because this tale didn’t really hold my interest as much as I’d hoped. While the conceit of having a duke and his sister work as servants was intriguing, I wasn’t all that fond of Rafe or Minerva at first, and Simon is a bumbling fool. Rafe has a dark and torturous past which makes him grumpy and rude, while Minerva has had control of her brother’s estates for so long she’s become arrogant, disdainful and also a bit rude. The pair of them are quite well matched, and it was easy to see why Simon had turned out the way he had thanks to Minerva’s handling of him.
Things do settle down as the book progresses and all three characters develop quite nicely. Rafe isn’t nearly so harsh, Minerva isn’t as arrogant and Simon actually grows up a little. I quite enjoyed Minerva’s time with the servants, even if she fitted in rather too easily with the staff – I would have expected local dialect/accents to have maybe tripped her up a bit, while housemaid Jenny has a rather extensive vocabulary that seemed rather out of place. There also didn’t seem to be all that many staff members for a house the size of Wintermarsh.
As the story progressed, I often found myself struggling to maintain an interest. I put it down at the halfway point unable to believe there was still half a book to go. Barely anything happens. Yes, Minerva and Rafe develop a relationship, but it’s slow going at first – before taking a couple of swift bounds forwards – and I kept waiting for something bad to happen just to liven things up. If I’d liked the characters more, no doubt I’d have been more invested in the romance, but mostly by the end I was just willing it to finish.
So overall this was just about okay for me. It’s an interesting idea and a good story, but it dragged in places and left me too much time to focus on the tiny details. Plenty of ground work was laid for future stories, and there’s a couple of appearances from the characters of the previous book, so fans of the series will probably love it. If you’re looking for a historical romance that’s high on the heat and romance, but less on the history, then this will deliver that – I just hope you like the characters more than I did.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
February 24, 2016
This is the second book in the Spies and Lovers series and it's not going to be my last. I know of Laura Trentham's contemporary romance, especially of Melting into You from her Falcon Footballl series but I love spy novels and to mix it with Historical romance will have me running to read it! An Indecent Invitation was a great start for Laurens in this series and genre and this second book into this series will have you wanting more.
In this story we see both Rafe and Minerva, two characters who've been mentioned and made appearances in the first book come together for a life changing experience. In this Rafe is shown more in depth of how he became who is and how that changed his view of life and the people around him. This gave him the hand in working, or training Simon, Minerva's young Duke of a brother, to become a better Duke as he matures into his role. This does not come easy because both Minerva and Simon has to work for it by knowing the ins and out of how to run a house, as servants or workers, for him at his home. Rafe just see this as a teaching for the two to grow up and stop being spoiled brats. And because Simon was gambling away everything he had, some one had to step in. And of course, Rafe didn't take a liking to Minerva, being that she is his sister's best friend and a bad role model. But Rafe himself isn't bad; he's strong like the spy and gentleman he is, a dominate of power, charm and wit to challenge anyone, but still he harbors scars full of insecurity and vulnerability.
Minerva is tough, she doesn't back down and when she gets the opportunity to strike she does it. Working for Rafe opened up her eyes on how tough it is to work for people and how much work goes into doing things the "right way". This changed how she viewed and treated her own staff and warmed her cold behavior seeing how Rafe acts around his own staff and towards her and her brother. She didn't even like Rafe, not just for winning her dowry from Simon and making her work for it back, but just because he's her friend's brother, another man trying to ruin things. It's great seeing her change from a rude and brat to a warmer human being than she was at the beginning. She's been through a lot after the death of her father and then her young brother gambling away their money and her dowry, she it was understandable for her to be cold and off limits to keep her safe.
The wit and humor mixed with the fast paced and tension between the characters were great. The added adventure of danger gave it more action and movement to a conclusion and HEA for these two but also throwing in a small love story calmed the waters and gave for a nice distraction. The build up between the two was done absolutely perfectly because we just weren't thrown into the love but sizzled up to it which made the story more about them and not just about lust and desire in the bedroom.
In this story we see both Rafe and Minerva, two characters who've been mentioned and made appearances in the first book come together for a life changing experience. In this Rafe is shown more in depth of how he became who is and how that changed his view of life and the people around him. This gave him the hand in working, or training Simon, Minerva's young Duke of a brother, to become a better Duke as he matures into his role. This does not come easy because both Minerva and Simon has to work for it by knowing the ins and out of how to run a house, as servants or workers, for him at his home. Rafe just see this as a teaching for the two to grow up and stop being spoiled brats. And because Simon was gambling away everything he had, some one had to step in. And of course, Rafe didn't take a liking to Minerva, being that she is his sister's best friend and a bad role model. But Rafe himself isn't bad; he's strong like the spy and gentleman he is, a dominate of power, charm and wit to challenge anyone, but still he harbors scars full of insecurity and vulnerability.
Minerva is tough, she doesn't back down and when she gets the opportunity to strike she does it. Working for Rafe opened up her eyes on how tough it is to work for people and how much work goes into doing things the "right way". This changed how she viewed and treated her own staff and warmed her cold behavior seeing how Rafe acts around his own staff and towards her and her brother. She didn't even like Rafe, not just for winning her dowry from Simon and making her work for it back, but just because he's her friend's brother, another man trying to ruin things. It's great seeing her change from a rude and brat to a warmer human being than she was at the beginning. She's been through a lot after the death of her father and then her young brother gambling away their money and her dowry, she it was understandable for her to be cold and off limits to keep her safe.
The wit and humor mixed with the fast paced and tension between the characters were great. The added adventure of danger gave it more action and movement to a conclusion and HEA for these two but also throwing in a small love story calmed the waters and gave for a nice distraction. The build up between the two was done absolutely perfectly because we just weren't thrown into the love but sizzled up to it which made the story more about them and not just about lust and desire in the bedroom.
February 25, 2016
Posted on What I'm Reading
When I started to read A Brazen Bargain, I wasn't expecting a Beauty and the Beast kind of story. In a way, it is. We have Lord Rafe Drummond who is scared on his face and he's a bit gruff. At times he's scary, but I think he's more wounded animal than whatever one perceives. He basically saves Minerva's brother from making a terrible mistake and he figures he could make Simon pay the debt by working it off at his estates. Sounds like a decent proposal, otherwise he could call in the markers and have him pay the money outright which would cause ruin for Simon and Minerva.
So, we see Simon and Minerva working off the debt. Yes, it was a little cruel how Rafe made Minerva work, but it also showed her more about other people's lives. She learn to appreciate the things she had taken for granted. Now her brother was a little harder to crack, and he doesn't learn the error of his ways until Rafe saves him again. By this point, we see Simon start to mature. Once Simon starts to mature, we see the relationship between Minerva and Rafe to bloom.
I enjoyed A Brazen Bargain, because you have Rafe teaching Simon responsibility. I liked how love developed slowly between Rafe and Minerva. She was like the rest of the ton and not seeing what a good guy Rafe was until they were outside the prying eyes of the ton. I had to warm up to Minerva, because automatically thought he was a villain in leading her brother away. I love Rafe, because he was a extremely decent guy, scars and all.
Overall, A Brazen Bargin a pretty good read. I like that it's different twist on Beauty and the Beast. They weren't held prisoners, but they had to pay the toll one way or another. It's a little easier to work a little than go into financial ruin.
Copy provided by author via PUYB
When I started to read A Brazen Bargain, I wasn't expecting a Beauty and the Beast kind of story. In a way, it is. We have Lord Rafe Drummond who is scared on his face and he's a bit gruff. At times he's scary, but I think he's more wounded animal than whatever one perceives. He basically saves Minerva's brother from making a terrible mistake and he figures he could make Simon pay the debt by working it off at his estates. Sounds like a decent proposal, otherwise he could call in the markers and have him pay the money outright which would cause ruin for Simon and Minerva.
So, we see Simon and Minerva working off the debt. Yes, it was a little cruel how Rafe made Minerva work, but it also showed her more about other people's lives. She learn to appreciate the things she had taken for granted. Now her brother was a little harder to crack, and he doesn't learn the error of his ways until Rafe saves him again. By this point, we see Simon start to mature. Once Simon starts to mature, we see the relationship between Minerva and Rafe to bloom.
I enjoyed A Brazen Bargain, because you have Rafe teaching Simon responsibility. I liked how love developed slowly between Rafe and Minerva. She was like the rest of the ton and not seeing what a good guy Rafe was until they were outside the prying eyes of the ton. I had to warm up to Minerva, because automatically thought he was a villain in leading her brother away. I love Rafe, because he was a extremely decent guy, scars and all.
Overall, A Brazen Bargin a pretty good read. I like that it's different twist on Beauty and the Beast. They weren't held prisoners, but they had to pay the toll one way or another. It's a little easier to work a little than go into financial ruin.
Copy provided by author via PUYB
December 27, 2015
Lady Minerva Bellingham's younger brother is a spoiled brat. He became the Duke of Bellingham at a young age and they only had a tutor to raise them. Simon has gotten himself in with the wrong type of friends. Viscount Hampton is all too willing to find gambling parlors for Simon to loose his fortune. Unfortunately for Hampton, Lord Rafe Drummond figures out what is going on. When Simon looses Minerva's dowry to him, Rafe intends to teach him a lesson. However, Minerva is the one that visits Rafe the next day. Rafe dislikes Minerva. She is his sister's best friend and the one that he felt was a bad influence. Rafe feels that Simon just needs somebody to give him the guidance he never and and Simon will make a wonderful Duke. Rafe proposes that Simon and Minerva work for him for three months at his estate.
Minerva not only quickly learns how to be a housemaid, she excels at it. Every time Rafe finds her in his room, he realizes that after his years of service to the Crown, no decent woman would ever want him. Minerva slowly starts to fall in love with Rafe even as he attempts to keep her at arms length When Hampton attempts to destroy everything that Simon has worked for by destroying Minerva, Rafe can no longer remain impartial.
This was the first book by Laura Trentham that I have read. I was intrigued by the plot synopsis and it did not disappoint from page one to the end. Rafe is wonderful as the tortured hero. Minerva is extremely intelligent, witty and not afraid of Rafe. She actually hates him in the beginning of the novel. There were points in the novel that I just wanted to smack Simon for being stupid and not seeing Hampton for what he was.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank You.
Minerva not only quickly learns how to be a housemaid, she excels at it. Every time Rafe finds her in his room, he realizes that after his years of service to the Crown, no decent woman would ever want him. Minerva slowly starts to fall in love with Rafe even as he attempts to keep her at arms length When Hampton attempts to destroy everything that Simon has worked for by destroying Minerva, Rafe can no longer remain impartial.
This was the first book by Laura Trentham that I have read. I was intrigued by the plot synopsis and it did not disappoint from page one to the end. Rafe is wonderful as the tortured hero. Minerva is extremely intelligent, witty and not afraid of Rafe. She actually hates him in the beginning of the novel. There were points in the novel that I just wanted to smack Simon for being stupid and not seeing Hampton for what he was.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank You.
March 10, 2016
Scarred and haunted by memories of war, Rafe keeps away from society despite his title. He works with his hands by day and drinks himself to sleep to keep the nightmares away. He is dark, brooding, and intimidating yet just and gentle and compassionate.
To be honest, he was, to me, everything Minerva was not.
Not that Minerva was a horrible witch. She's known as the Ice Queen to her peers. Her demeanor and actions reflect it well. And I really didn't like her. Strength is one thing for an incredible female lead to have, especially in historical romances when women did not have the freedoms and rights contemporary women do. But arrogance and lack of compassion are not what I want to see in a female lead. I loved and was grateful for Minerva's strength, but I despised her highhandedness and haughtiness. She was, at the beginning, not the kind of woman I wanted Rafe to fall in love with.
Did she change, become softer, more understanding? Yes. The bargain struck with Rafe did that. The difference between the Minerva at the end was a far cry from the Minerva at the beginning. Her transformation was beautiful. It made her outward beauty a hundred times more stunning and made her worthy of the right to claim, hold, and protect Rafe's heart.
I didn't read the first book in this series. If you didn't and are wondering if you should, you won't need to. Who Rafe and Minerva are, how they came to be where they currently are in life are explained in depth in this book. That being said, this story has given me a reason to want to read the first one.
This was a challenging read for me. More than once I wanted to put it down and say, "F*** it" because Minerva grated my nerves until they were raw. I'm glad I muscled past those initial feelings and finished this story. It was definitely worth reading.
Received from NetGalley via Pump Up Your Book for an honest review
To be honest, he was, to me, everything Minerva was not.
Not that Minerva was a horrible witch. She's known as the Ice Queen to her peers. Her demeanor and actions reflect it well. And I really didn't like her. Strength is one thing for an incredible female lead to have, especially in historical romances when women did not have the freedoms and rights contemporary women do. But arrogance and lack of compassion are not what I want to see in a female lead. I loved and was grateful for Minerva's strength, but I despised her highhandedness and haughtiness. She was, at the beginning, not the kind of woman I wanted Rafe to fall in love with.
Did she change, become softer, more understanding? Yes. The bargain struck with Rafe did that. The difference between the Minerva at the end was a far cry from the Minerva at the beginning. Her transformation was beautiful. It made her outward beauty a hundred times more stunning and made her worthy of the right to claim, hold, and protect Rafe's heart.
I didn't read the first book in this series. If you didn't and are wondering if you should, you won't need to. Who Rafe and Minerva are, how they came to be where they currently are in life are explained in depth in this book. That being said, this story has given me a reason to want to read the first one.
This was a challenging read for me. More than once I wanted to put it down and say, "F*** it" because Minerva grated my nerves until they were raw. I'm glad I muscled past those initial feelings and finished this story. It was definitely worth reading.
Received from NetGalley via Pump Up Your Book for an honest review
December 30, 2015
This is book two in the "Spies and Lovers" series. I have read the previous book " An Indecent Invitation" in the series but I felt this was a standalone book. This was really a traditional much loved Historical Romance. I loved Lord Rafe Drummond who is our hero. Rafe has the basic concept of traditional hero that has been scared and tries to be strong..loved this type of hero. Our heroine, Minerva Bellingham was someone that tried to take charge, fix things and did what they could for her family. Minerva younger brother has fallen into the wrong crowd and also someone that is spoiled. Her brother ends up owing money to Rafe and Minerva thought to give him her dowry in place of the money. But Rafe has deiced that they would befit more from working off the money and learning from this experience. It had a good side story too... overall loved having the chance to read this book!!
January 27, 2016
I loved Rafe from the first book and was eager to read his story. It was wonderful! Both of the Spies and Lovers books are fabulous. I love how Laura Trentham draws me into the story in every way. The characters come alive beautifully. I loved Rafe and Minerva together and separately. Minerva had such a strength and depth to her. Even though she was cold to the outside world, she had a warm and loyal heart and a take charge attitude when it was warranted. Rafe was the type of hero I love...scarred and intimidating on the outside, but insecure and honorable on the inside. Together they brought out the best in each other with their courage and passion. That passion was really sizzling hot and erotic! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would highly recommend both books to any fan of historical romance. I have a feeling the next book will be about Minerva's brother Simon. I can't wait!
February 25, 2018
I was going to rate this two stars, but Ms. Trentham pulled it out in the end. My difficulty was in the direction of the story. It seemed to be off track once Minerva and Simon made it to the country. The focus becoming all Minerva. Simon should have been the main story, considering the circumstances that brought them to Rafe Drummond’s estate. I’m disappointed I didn’t get to experience Simon grow from a boy to a man and learn the consequences of his choices. The extra star came from the last chapters when Simon took control. Lord Drummond was a tortured soul, but a very good man. I enjoyed him immensely. In fact, I enjoyed all the characters. My problem was too much Minerva, which made the story boring at times and difficult to finish. The writing was very good. I just felt the author got off track.
February 17, 2016
This is the sequel to An Indecent Invitation, so of course I had to read this too! This story is about Lily's brother and HER best friend. The ol' switcheroo (last book was brother's best friend and sister). Rafe was wallowing in depression over something that happened to him on his last assignment (he's a spy). Minerva, trying to save her own brother as usual, confronts Rafe about her brother's gambling debt to him. Rafe says he'll wave the debt if she and her brother come work for him. Rafe is a smart guy and does this in order to teach the younger man how to run and estate and grow up. It was a great story with lots of smokin' hot sex! Loved it!
October 6, 2020
Not as good as the first book in the series. Without the subplot of a mystery to solve, the story dragged in the middle.
It was never believable that pathetic Hampton could be a serious threat with someone like Rafe to protect Minerva and Simon. So that element lacked excitement.
Rafe got off too easy in the end. He’s allowed to mope for two months after being a complete asshole, then had to practically get dragged back to Minerva by her brother where in a minute she forgives him and begs him to take her home. It didn’t seem to fit with the fiery, independent, sharp-tongued Minerva we know in most of the book.
It was never believable that pathetic Hampton could be a serious threat with someone like Rafe to protect Minerva and Simon. So that element lacked excitement.
Rafe got off too easy in the end. He’s allowed to mope for two months after being a complete asshole, then had to practically get dragged back to Minerva by her brother where in a minute she forgives him and begs him to take her home. It didn’t seem to fit with the fiery, independent, sharp-tongued Minerva we know in most of the book.
January 11, 2016
A passionate love affair between two people, who you would never expect to fall for each other. Minerva has always had to take care of herself and her younger brother Simon, who has become a complete rake hell. Simon has gambled away Minerva's dowry, to Lord Drummond. To earn back her dowry, both Minerva and Simon must work as servants as Lord Drummond's estate. While they are thrown together, Drummond learns that there is much more to Minerva than he originally thought. There is plenty of passion and intrigue in this book. I loved it.
Thanks Netgalley!
Thanks Netgalley!
May 9, 2016
I've read this novel some time ago now...I don't know why I hadn't rated it earlier, especially because I've loved it, and since I've finished my first reading I've read it several other times. Lovely, touching and very hot!
July 17, 2016
This book is utter perfection! it was a thrill to read and had me on the edge of my seat throughout., each page was better and better than the last.... till sigh the amazing ending.
Loved it.
Loved it.
October 18, 2023
Minerva has a younger brother Simon, a duke. He is wasting money as quickly as he can. He has gotten them into a situation where Minerva’s dowry will need to be given away to pay a gambling debt to Rafe. Rafe is a war hero who has led an isolated existence because he has a difficult time getting over all his memories of the war.
But Rafe, has an idea which can help Simon grow up and become a responsible man. Minerva and Simon will come to Rafe’s estate and work as servants. And hopefully Simon will learn to be more mature.
There were several things to like about this book. But, also a few things that I did not like.
I do not believe any of the premise of the story could have happened. But, I could put my common sense aside for a time and enjoy the story.
Simon was a childish young man who had basically been raised by his older sister. She spoiled him and he was never held accountable for anything he did. So, no surprise that he acted very immaturely. Everyone around her tried to get her to make Simon more responsible. All she did was scream and try to emotionally abuse him. I was not a fan of Simon, but I did understand why he did not pay attention to Minerva.
Minerva had been running her family finances since she was in her teens. She had a reputation as a cold hearted woman. She was basically more interested in finances than a social life or her brother. She had allowed Simon to behave as a spoiled child.
Rafe remembered himself as a young man and he wanted to help Simon grow and become a better man. He also was lusting after Minerva.
The atmosphere of the story was a little improbable. It did not feel like it took place in the 19th century. The rules of the upper classes were never this lax.
I liked the book and the plot was interesting. I liked Minerva and Rafe and eventually liked Simon.
Ms Trentham is a talented author. This is not her best book, but it is a good book.
But Rafe, has an idea which can help Simon grow up and become a responsible man. Minerva and Simon will come to Rafe’s estate and work as servants. And hopefully Simon will learn to be more mature.
There were several things to like about this book. But, also a few things that I did not like.
I do not believe any of the premise of the story could have happened. But, I could put my common sense aside for a time and enjoy the story.
Simon was a childish young man who had basically been raised by his older sister. She spoiled him and he was never held accountable for anything he did. So, no surprise that he acted very immaturely. Everyone around her tried to get her to make Simon more responsible. All she did was scream and try to emotionally abuse him. I was not a fan of Simon, but I did understand why he did not pay attention to Minerva.
Minerva had been running her family finances since she was in her teens. She had a reputation as a cold hearted woman. She was basically more interested in finances than a social life or her brother. She had allowed Simon to behave as a spoiled child.
Rafe remembered himself as a young man and he wanted to help Simon grow and become a better man. He also was lusting after Minerva.
The atmosphere of the story was a little improbable. It did not feel like it took place in the 19th century. The rules of the upper classes were never this lax.
I liked the book and the plot was interesting. I liked Minerva and Rafe and eventually liked Simon.
Ms Trentham is a talented author. This is not her best book, but it is a good book.
September 12, 2021
I absolutely loved this book!
I'd remembered reading the first in the series and having very much enjoyed that novel. Upon seeing this series was on KU I thought I'd try the second installment and see if it lived up to the standard of the first one. Nope, it exceeded it!
This book featured Rafe, Lily's brother and Grey's best friend, and Lady Minerva. Both Rafe and Minerva were introduced in the first novel of the series. This particular book sees Rafe helping Minerva's brother Simon out of a gambling debt when he takes on the young Duke and his sister and has them come to his estate to work off the debt. Simon tends to the horses and Minerva becomes a housemaid. Not only does Rafe help Simon in realizing his potential as a great Duke, he also begins falling for Minerva, who he couldn't stand in the first novel.
What made this book amazing for me was that Minerva was a well-rounded heroine. She was both strong and progressive, but loving and was hopeful for romance. Rafe, a tortured soul, dealt with his own demons from the war. His disfigurement and his struggle with anger, or PTSD as we know it, he felt held him back from someone truly loving him as a man, husband, and father.
This book for sure had some Beauty and the Beast vibes!
While this book had less of the spy elements I loved in the first novel, the romance between Rafe and Minerva was divine. There was some push and pull, but the grovel at the end was perfection.
I'm so happy these novels are on KU, because I for sure smell a binge coming on. I'm hoping the 3rd novel which features Drake, Minerva's man of affairs, continues this awesome momentum of the series!
I'd remembered reading the first in the series and having very much enjoyed that novel. Upon seeing this series was on KU I thought I'd try the second installment and see if it lived up to the standard of the first one. Nope, it exceeded it!
This book featured Rafe, Lily's brother and Grey's best friend, and Lady Minerva. Both Rafe and Minerva were introduced in the first novel of the series. This particular book sees Rafe helping Minerva's brother Simon out of a gambling debt when he takes on the young Duke and his sister and has them come to his estate to work off the debt. Simon tends to the horses and Minerva becomes a housemaid. Not only does Rafe help Simon in realizing his potential as a great Duke, he also begins falling for Minerva, who he couldn't stand in the first novel.
What made this book amazing for me was that Minerva was a well-rounded heroine. She was both strong and progressive, but loving and was hopeful for romance. Rafe, a tortured soul, dealt with his own demons from the war. His disfigurement and his struggle with anger, or PTSD as we know it, he felt held him back from someone truly loving him as a man, husband, and father.
This book for sure had some Beauty and the Beast vibes!
While this book had less of the spy elements I loved in the first novel, the romance between Rafe and Minerva was divine. There was some push and pull, but the grovel at the end was perfection.
I'm so happy these novels are on KU, because I for sure smell a binge coming on. I'm hoping the 3rd novel which features Drake, Minerva's man of affairs, continues this awesome momentum of the series!
September 26, 2022
This is the second book in this series and can be read as a standalone, but I am glad I read the first book. These characters and the storylines are inviting, interesting and keep you on the edge of your seat and the first book sets the tone for the series. This is Rafe and Minerva’s story.
We met both of these characters in book one. Rafe is Lily’s brother and Minerva is her best friend. When we meet them, these two can’t stand each other. Rafe thinks she is a bad influence on his sister. She has a reputation in the ton of being cold and un marriageable. She has been managing her estate because her brother, Simon is completely incapable. She is outspoken, strong and beautiful and Rafe is drawn to her for reasons he can’t explain.
Rafe has been home and healed from horrible injuries he sustained fighting for his country. Rafe has suffered with nightmares since being home and has terrible scars that are a constant reminder to him. He doesn’t feel worthy of love and has hidden from the ton since he has been home. Love and marriage are not part of his future and he doesn’t feel he deserves Minerva’s beauty.
Minerva’s brother puts her in a dangerous situation and Rafe feels compelled to help them both. By doing this, he insults her position in society, but she goes along with the plan to save her brother. This story takes us on Minerva, Simon and Rafe’s journey and it is wonderful. They all learn about themselves throughout the book. Rafe and Minerva develop a respect and love for each other. I love their tender moments together. She loves him and doesn’t see his scars which is so special to see him accept. I didn’t want their story to end!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We met both of these characters in book one. Rafe is Lily’s brother and Minerva is her best friend. When we meet them, these two can’t stand each other. Rafe thinks she is a bad influence on his sister. She has a reputation in the ton of being cold and un marriageable. She has been managing her estate because her brother, Simon is completely incapable. She is outspoken, strong and beautiful and Rafe is drawn to her for reasons he can’t explain.
Rafe has been home and healed from horrible injuries he sustained fighting for his country. Rafe has suffered with nightmares since being home and has terrible scars that are a constant reminder to him. He doesn’t feel worthy of love and has hidden from the ton since he has been home. Love and marriage are not part of his future and he doesn’t feel he deserves Minerva’s beauty.
Minerva’s brother puts her in a dangerous situation and Rafe feels compelled to help them both. By doing this, he insults her position in society, but she goes along with the plan to save her brother. This story takes us on Minerva, Simon and Rafe’s journey and it is wonderful. They all learn about themselves throughout the book. Rafe and Minerva develop a respect and love for each other. I love their tender moments together. She loves him and doesn’t see his scars which is so special to see him accept. I didn’t want their story to end!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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December 7, 2021Ssmooooooking hot
Sex scenes that are different not just mandatory stipulations that are so identical, it makes you ask if it is the editors or writer's guild that issues the playbook. And the story is solid. This is not one of those which is all sexual attraction but no substance. The characters evolve during the text, intimately get into each other's head while the hero wrestles with himself. Love Rafe.
One of the few heroes in these books that display genuine honour. He fought valiantly. He treasured the woman above the sex. Delay was long but there was no disappointment. Many heroes are described as head and shoulders above the rest. But this novel is novel as it stands heads and shoulders above those in this genre. A book worth reading more than twice. Majority only deserve one. The journey the author takes you on survives in your subconscious mind. Like any spectacular dessert. Lick the plate, fingers; suck that fork until nothing remains a s washing is for hygiene purposes alone. Black forest, cheesecake and in Barbados black cake/ rum / fruit cake. When it's done right, it's too good to be true. So for all of those with covid fatigue, get an exceptional dessert. Enjoy Christmas. Have a good one.
Sex scenes that are different not just mandatory stipulations that are so identical, it makes you ask if it is the editors or writer's guild that issues the playbook. And the story is solid. This is not one of those which is all sexual attraction but no substance. The characters evolve during the text, intimately get into each other's head while the hero wrestles with himself. Love Rafe.
One of the few heroes in these books that display genuine honour. He fought valiantly. He treasured the woman above the sex. Delay was long but there was no disappointment. Many heroes are described as head and shoulders above the rest. But this novel is novel as it stands heads and shoulders above those in this genre. A book worth reading more than twice. Majority only deserve one. The journey the author takes you on survives in your subconscious mind. Like any spectacular dessert. Lick the plate, fingers; suck that fork until nothing remains a s washing is for hygiene purposes alone. Black forest, cheesecake and in Barbados black cake/ rum / fruit cake. When it's done right, it's too good to be true. So for all of those with covid fatigue, get an exceptional dessert. Enjoy Christmas. Have a good one.
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