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The Disgraced Lords #6
A Night of Forever
Arend Aubury trusts no one besides his fellow Libertine Scholars. After his family escaped from France, penniless and persecuted, only the Scholars took him in. So when the stepdaughter of the villainess who has been plotting against them approaches Arend with allegations against their enemy, he suspects a double cross. Yet Isobel is a tantalizing prize, with lips as sweet as champagne and skin as creamy as Camembert. Is she a feast for the senses—or a bitter trap?
Lady Isobel Thompson dreams of marrying an honorable gentleman with a spotless reputation, a trait that Arend seems to lack completely. But Isobel believes that her stepmother is responsible for her father’s death, and only Arend has the skills to uncover the truth. As a cover, Arend suggests a fake betrothal—and soon Isobel finds herself forgetting that their courtship is a ploy. He’s so different from the man of her fantasies, and yet he’s so terribly handsome, so dangerously intoxicating—and all Isobel wants is more.
Lady Isobel Thompson dreams of marrying an honorable gentleman with a spotless reputation, a trait that Arend seems to lack completely. But Isobel believes that her stepmother is responsible for her father’s death, and only Arend has the skills to uncover the truth. As a cover, Arend suggests a fake betrothal—and soon Isobel finds herself forgetting that their courtship is a ploy. He’s so different from the man of her fantasies, and yet he’s so terribly handsome, so dangerously intoxicating—and all Isobel wants is more.
240 pages, ebook
First published October 25, 2016
108 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Bronwen Evans
163 books972 followersUSA Today bestselling author, Bronwen Evans grew up loving books. She writes both historical and contemporary sexy romances for the modern woman who likes intelligent, spirited heroines, and compassionate alpha heroes. Evans is a three-time winner of the RomCon Readers’ Crown and has been nominated for an RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. She lives in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand with her dogs Brandy and Duke.
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Join my book club newsletter and receive a FREE eBook.
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Bronwen loves hearing from avid romance readers at Bronwen@bronwenevans.com
You can keep up with Bronwen’s news by visiting her website www.bronwenevans.com
Or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bronwenevans...
Or Twitter: https://twitter.com/bronwenevans_NZ
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
October 24, 2016
'A Night of Forever' by Bronwen Evans is book six in the "The Disgraced Lords" series. This is the story of Arend Aubury and Lady Isobel Thompson. I have been jumping in and out of this series so I feel that this book is easily a standalone book. Wow..this was an exciting read from the first pages. We find that Isobel is in a carriage accident and Arend is part of the people that happen to find her and a friend. Ever since then Isobel has been fighter her attraction to Arend not just because he isn't a man she would consider as a husband but he is acting like he doesn't believe anything she says about the accident. Arend has things from his past that cause him to be so slow to trust anyone. Isobel to has something she is keeping secret that she thinks Arend would be a person to help her find out the truth. They both decide to try to join forces to try to find out what has been going on...but will Arend every be able to trust Isobel? Another great exciting read from Ms. Evans!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
September 4, 2019
How ironic. She was nothing to Arend except as a means to spy on Victoria. She was nothing to Victoria except as a means to kill Arend. Neither cared if she lived or died. No one cared. She was on her own.
5 stars!
I really, really enjoyed this book. And I'm also indebted to this book as it successfully pulled me out of my horrendous book slump when it seemed like nothing could. It was filled with danger, romance, angst, unrequited longing, a murder plot, revenge, distrust, love, kidnappings, misunderstandings, and eventually a HEA.
Even though this book was part of an ongoing and connected series, I read this as a standalone and didn't feel like I was missing out on too much. The previous characters and books center around finding out who is trying to kill the members of the Libertine Scholars and their wives. In this novel, our hero Arend has finally narrowed down the suspect to Victoria, who just happens to be Isobel's stepmother. As he intends to court Isobel as a way to get close to Victoria and determine if he's correct, Victoria plots to push Arend and Isobel together and use her step-daughter as a way to finally best Arend, and by association the rest of the Libertine Scholars. No one expects Arend and Isobel to actually develop feelings for each other, but the plot against both of their lives and Arend's constant and deep distrust of women threaten to keep them from finding their happiness.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and it's angsty characters. Arend's dark past dealt with some subjects that I've yet to come across in other HR novels, and I found it heart-breakingly and morbidly interesting. I liked how Isobel never gave up on him and simply sought to support him and be there for him as a friend (if nothing else) in the hopes that he finally was able to let go of his horrible past and allow his friends to be there for him as well. Definitely recommend!
My Arend Aubury, Baron Labourd, the sexy, gorgeous, and jaded Frenchman...
August 29, 2016
I’m not going to lie but the only reason I wanted to read this book was to see what happened between the Libertine Scholars and the villain who has been tormenting them for so long. The thing is that I haven’t read all the books in this series. I read the first three books then decided to stop...
Book 1: 4 stars
Book 2: 3 stars
Book 3: 2 stars
Do you see the pattern? I was definitely thinking of quitting this series because I wasn’t sure if there was any hope for improvement. I saw the sixth and final book on Netgalley and thought this may be a good time to return to find out how the series ends. I was always a bit curious how everything would be wrapped up.
I really wasn’t feeling the romance in this book. I felt almost completely disconnected with the main couple. I didn’t even feel what they felt for each other. It felt shallow to me. They only remarked on each other’s physical attractiveness. Then there was so much distrust between them, reasonable yes, but I couldn’t understand how a relationship could form when they suspected and questioned each other all the time.
Our main villain, let’s call her V, is hell bent on enacting revenge against the Libertines because of their fathers’ horrible deed. I think she has every right to want revenge but I also think that because she is willing to hurt anyone and everyone the Libertines care about, even innocent parties, that I have lost most of my sympathy for her. She has gone too far too many times for me to care about her “cause”. I also couldn’t see her as the villain because she seemed like a brat sometimes. She is supposed to have thwarted them over and over again but she doesn’t really seem to be clever enough to have pulled it all together. I don’t see it.
This series is dark. I won’t even try to deny that some things that have happened in this series are terrible and tragic. However, I think there are too many layers of dark drama and tragedy for me to find my way through the story in one piece. I get it. They all have hard problems, experiences, and again tragedies to overcome. Yet, there is almost too much sometimes. There is an overarching story with V then individual traumas and such that should work for a series of books. I just feel like it is all exhausting. A little less would have been better. They have so many problems coming from this direction and that direction that I am just drowning in sorrow.
I read the first half, skimmed through the second half and found the ending resolution to a bit anticlimactic or I just gave up caring and stopped paying attention. Either way, I know this book was not for me. I mean V doesn’t even end up, in society’s eyes, as the villain just sucks. I thought there would be more closure after all this time. I just want to go read something else. At least the series is over now.
I received this via Netgalley for an honest review.
Book 1: 4 stars
Book 2: 3 stars
Book 3: 2 stars
Do you see the pattern? I was definitely thinking of quitting this series because I wasn’t sure if there was any hope for improvement. I saw the sixth and final book on Netgalley and thought this may be a good time to return to find out how the series ends. I was always a bit curious how everything would be wrapped up.
I really wasn’t feeling the romance in this book. I felt almost completely disconnected with the main couple. I didn’t even feel what they felt for each other. It felt shallow to me. They only remarked on each other’s physical attractiveness. Then there was so much distrust between them, reasonable yes, but I couldn’t understand how a relationship could form when they suspected and questioned each other all the time.
Our main villain, let’s call her V, is hell bent on enacting revenge against the Libertines because of their fathers’ horrible deed. I think she has every right to want revenge but I also think that because she is willing to hurt anyone and everyone the Libertines care about, even innocent parties, that I have lost most of my sympathy for her. She has gone too far too many times for me to care about her “cause”. I also couldn’t see her as the villain because she seemed like a brat sometimes. She is supposed to have thwarted them over and over again but she doesn’t really seem to be clever enough to have pulled it all together. I don’t see it.
This series is dark. I won’t even try to deny that some things that have happened in this series are terrible and tragic. However, I think there are too many layers of dark drama and tragedy for me to find my way through the story in one piece. I get it. They all have hard problems, experiences, and again tragedies to overcome. Yet, there is almost too much sometimes. There is an overarching story with V then individual traumas and such that should work for a series of books. I just feel like it is all exhausting. A little less would have been better. They have so many problems coming from this direction and that direction that I am just drowning in sorrow.
I read the first half, skimmed through the second half and found the ending resolution to a bit anticlimactic or I just gave up caring and stopped paying attention. Either way, I know this book was not for me. I mean V doesn’t even end up, in society’s eyes, as the villain just sucks. I thought there would be more closure after all this time. I just want to go read something else. At least the series is over now.
I received this via Netgalley for an honest review.
November 16, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Arend Aubury trusts no one except the libertine scholars and their wives. The past has made him believe in treachery and deceit, especially when their nemesis is involved. He has a plan, and will need to use a "supposedley" innocent woman to do it. Lady Isobel Thompson is the step daughter of Victoria, the woman they believe to be behind the attacks. But Isobel knows that her step mother is not what she seems to be. Even though she knows that Arend doesn't trust her and is using her to get to Victoria, Isobel allows it despite how much it hurts her that the man she has fallen hard for, doesn't believe in her. But Isobel is made of tough stuff, and she decides that its necessary to force Arend to face the past and choose to love and trust her. But Arend hasn't had a easy time of it, and he wants to trust in Isobel, but fears that another woman would betray him and would be the cause of the death of the only family he has ever known: The Libertine Scholars. But Arend might lose Isobel if he doesn't take that leap of faith, and trust in Isobel and the love they share and defeat their enemy who would destroy them all...
Plot and Story Line
In the latest release of the Libertine Scholars series, we finally get Arend's story. Now Arend has always been a bit of a mystery throughout the series, probably due to his past and he keeps himself set apart from the others. On Arend's part, he blames himself for one of their brothers deaths and for Victoria's actions. He doesn't feel that he is worthy to find the happiness the other scholars have found with their wives. But we see that he won't be left out in the cold, if our heroine: the esteemed and fearless Isobel has anything to say about it.
Now Isobel is feisty and challenging and courageous and I honestly loved her character and she was just right for Arend. Arend needs a woman that will fight tooth and nail for him, and Isobel does that and more. Even when she the others think the worst of her, she never loses faith in her love for Arend. It was quite heartbreaking at times, to see how much she adored Arend but really had to fight to keep his faith in her. Its not an easy road for either one of them. But when you have been burned and very badly, its not easy to get back in the "saddle".
So it does take mistakes and some groveling and courage to keep love when you find it. On top of that, we have the evil Victoria, who is cunning. She is quite horrible, but she does prove to be a solid villain for the story and the whole series really. This story was a bit of a roller coaster though, with the romantic drama, mystery and suspenseful scenes, a villain who seems to be a step ahead of the good guys....a true love story that shows the battle between good vs. evil and the value of fighting for what is right. Simply another brilliant book from this stunning author!!!
The Cover
I like that it follows the tone of the other covers for the rest of the series, and her dress is so pretty....I love the gray tones.
Overall View
A Night Of Forever is action packed and a drama filled romance with endearing characters to cheer for....a love story that is worth fighting for!!!
BOOKS N TUNES
I picked up this song because it just fits....especially for our heroine!!! She fights for the one she wants, almost to the cost of her life.
Summary
Arend Aubury trusts no one except the libertine scholars and their wives. The past has made him believe in treachery and deceit, especially when their nemesis is involved. He has a plan, and will need to use a "supposedley" innocent woman to do it. Lady Isobel Thompson is the step daughter of Victoria, the woman they believe to be behind the attacks. But Isobel knows that her step mother is not what she seems to be. Even though she knows that Arend doesn't trust her and is using her to get to Victoria, Isobel allows it despite how much it hurts her that the man she has fallen hard for, doesn't believe in her. But Isobel is made of tough stuff, and she decides that its necessary to force Arend to face the past and choose to love and trust her. But Arend hasn't had a easy time of it, and he wants to trust in Isobel, but fears that another woman would betray him and would be the cause of the death of the only family he has ever known: The Libertine Scholars. But Arend might lose Isobel if he doesn't take that leap of faith, and trust in Isobel and the love they share and defeat their enemy who would destroy them all...
Plot and Story Line
In the latest release of the Libertine Scholars series, we finally get Arend's story. Now Arend has always been a bit of a mystery throughout the series, probably due to his past and he keeps himself set apart from the others. On Arend's part, he blames himself for one of their brothers deaths and for Victoria's actions. He doesn't feel that he is worthy to find the happiness the other scholars have found with their wives. But we see that he won't be left out in the cold, if our heroine: the esteemed and fearless Isobel has anything to say about it.
One man, and one only, consumed her.
Now Isobel is feisty and challenging and courageous and I honestly loved her character and she was just right for Arend. Arend needs a woman that will fight tooth and nail for him, and Isobel does that and more. Even when she the others think the worst of her, she never loses faith in her love for Arend. It was quite heartbreaking at times, to see how much she adored Arend but really had to fight to keep his faith in her. Its not an easy road for either one of them. But when you have been burned and very badly, its not easy to get back in the "saddle".
He was being torn in two. One part of him wanted her with every beat of his heart, wanted to bury his face in her scented heat, taste the fragrance that was only, ever Isobel. The other part of him was screaming in agony, begging to flee before it was too late...while the nauseating smell of burning flesh filled his lungs.
So it does take mistakes and some groveling and courage to keep love when you find it. On top of that, we have the evil Victoria, who is cunning. She is quite horrible, but she does prove to be a solid villain for the story and the whole series really. This story was a bit of a roller coaster though, with the romantic drama, mystery and suspenseful scenes, a villain who seems to be a step ahead of the good guys....a true love story that shows the battle between good vs. evil and the value of fighting for what is right. Simply another brilliant book from this stunning author!!!
She was desperate to help him, to show him in a way that would silence any doubt in his distrustful mind and wounded soul that she would never betray him, no matter what dark secrets his past held. All she cared about was the man he was now.
"No" Of this she was absolutely certain. "The type of man you are does not have to be dictated by a brand or decree by the mistakes you made in your youth. You are a man formed by the obstacles you have overcome, by the quality of those who truly love you, the ones who stand with you, and the ones who would give their lives for you."
The Cover
I like that it follows the tone of the other covers for the rest of the series, and her dress is so pretty....I love the gray tones.
Overall View
A Night Of Forever is action packed and a drama filled romance with endearing characters to cheer for....a love story that is worth fighting for!!!
To find that special love is better than all the riches in the world
BOOKS N TUNES
I picked up this song because it just fits....especially for our heroine!!! She fights for the one she wants, almost to the cost of her life.
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="22902"]
October 21, 2022
A wonderful book. Having read most of the books previously in this series, I was curious to find out more about Arend, the man who was deemed as heartless and an asshole by his friends from his method of doing things.
Underneath the cold man he shows to others, Arend was deeply hurt by people he trusted in his past, hence his reason for being distrustful in the present.
It was heartwarming to see Isobel slowly coax and be patient with Arend’s distrust issues and got him to trust once again. She made him believe that only he himself cares more about his past than anyone else, his friends and Isobel would not judge him so much for it.
Arend’s walls slowly broke down with Isobel’s love and patience and I just loved seeing the man underneath who just needed someone to trust and love him.
As the last book to cover the mystery of the mastermind behind all the men’s accusations and the dangers, this book obviously had more action in it than the previous few books. Though I did skim the action, the author did a great job in balancing the action and romance between Arend and Isobel so that the action was not more than the romance. It is a romance book after all, not an action book.
Nice epilogue to cover most of the couples’ happy end, and it seems there is Rose’s and Phillip’s book for the next one. I’ll definitely be reading it.
Underneath the cold man he shows to others, Arend was deeply hurt by people he trusted in his past, hence his reason for being distrustful in the present.
It was heartwarming to see Isobel slowly coax and be patient with Arend’s distrust issues and got him to trust once again. She made him believe that only he himself cares more about his past than anyone else, his friends and Isobel would not judge him so much for it.
Arend’s walls slowly broke down with Isobel’s love and patience and I just loved seeing the man underneath who just needed someone to trust and love him.
As the last book to cover the mystery of the mastermind behind all the men’s accusations and the dangers, this book obviously had more action in it than the previous few books. Though I did skim the action, the author did a great job in balancing the action and romance between Arend and Isobel so that the action was not more than the romance. It is a romance book after all, not an action book.
Nice epilogue to cover most of the couples’ happy end, and it seems there is Rose’s and Phillip’s book for the next one. I’ll definitely be reading it.
August 18, 2016
Everyone, myself included, has anxiously awaited Arend’s story and the conclusion to who has been trying to destroy the Libertine Scholars. Bronwen Evans does not disappoint in A Night of Forever, #6 in her Disgraced Lords series.
Arend Aubury, 5th Baron of Labourd, has learned the hard way to trust no one. Especially a woman. Aside from his fellow Libertine Scholars, he places faith in no one, But even his friends don’t know the secrets he hides. Secrets that would make them see him for the dishonorable man he thinks he is. He feels responsible for the villainess seeking to destroy his friends and wonders if her beautiful stepdaughter, Isobel, is conspiring with her. Perhaps he’ll have to seduce her to expose her secrets. And the thought of that excites him.
Lady Isobel Thompson yearns to escape her stepmother and is anxious to find a husband by the end of the season. Arend was sinfully beautiful. A desirable man but not a desirable husband. Still, he is the man she must turn to for help if she is to prove that her stepmother, Victoria, is responsible for the fire that killed Isobel’s father.
Arend suspects this is just a ploy by Isobel to aid Victoria. Whether Isobel is innocent or not, he knows he’ll have to play the game of double cross carefully until he knows for certain which side she’s on. So he suggests a betrothal. A pretend one only. Of course, they’d have to make it believable. A kiss here, a touch there. “For her sake he hoped he could resist her. For her sake he hoped she could resist him.” But given the way she made him feel, that was unlikely.
What follows is an epic story with the Libertine Scholars and Isobel on a wild chase across England. Full of kidnappings and attacks, and slippery Victoria always seemingly one step ahead of them, this story will leave you breathless. Victoria is doing all she can to make Isobel appear duplicitous. Can the Libertine Scholars and their wives trust her? And more importantly, can Arend?
A beautiful story of two people who wanted each other desperately but feared the other didn’t feel the same. Two people who had to learn to trust each other and themselves. At times, it felt like they had a long road ahead of them, but oh what a glorious journey!.
Arend is definitely the darker, more brooding of the Libertine Scholars. He had lived in true poverty after his family escaped France. No one, not even his friends, know what happened to him during those 5 years before he made his fortune in the diamond mines of Brazil. He’d sunk as low as a man could go and when he’d dared to think he could rise above his past, a beautiful woman had made him party to his best friend’s murder. Guilt ate at him every day and left an aching void in his soul. He didn’t deserve happiness or love. Any woman who wanted him had to have an ulterior motive. As his feelings for Isobel grow, he wants to trust her but is still haunted by the betrayals of his past. If Isobel was telling the truth, he could not tie himself to someone as innocent and pure as her. She could never be his. He must keep his distance and when this is over, she can marry someone who deserves her. No woman could love him when he couldn’t even love himself. But he wanted her to want him as much as he needed her. If only her innocence could cleanse his soul.
When her father married Victoria, Isobel decided love was a lie and wanted to marry any man so that she could “escape the hypocrisy of such a home”. She never thought about wanting a love match until she’d seen what the wives of the Libertine Scholars had. She was drawn to Arend but knew he only valued her as a means to defeat Victoria. He was handsome but there was “a darkness to him that would never let in the light”. She’d be a fool to lose her heart to him. When Arend suggests a fake betrothal to make Victoria think her plan was succeeding, Isobel knows she must be careful or she could become one of his discarded conquests. She must remind herself that it’s all a game. One she mustn’t lose or she could lose everything. She knows this move by Arend has nothing to do with love. Yet, at times, he seemed to feel real affection for her and she was finding herself falling in love with him. How did a woman know if a man loved her? Could she trust him with her heart? Arend hid pain and secrets. It hurt to know he couldn’t trust her but she couldn’t turn her back on his pain. She would love him no matter what he’d done because of the wonderful man he was now. She’d treat him with love, tenderness, and understanding until he could open his heart to her. But could he?
If you haven’t followed this series from the beginning, you are missing out on an absolutely brilliant romance full of passion, dark and dangerous secrets, dashing, honorable men, and the beautiful, strong women who love them. Arend’s story was perfect and exceeded my imagination. I’m most excited to know this isn’t the end of this series as Ms. Evans plans to write the stories of some of the secondary characters. Personally, I’m hoping army surgeon Sean Colbert is among them. Also, I really loved the preface from Christian and the “Meet the Libertine Scholars” section to refresh my memory of each character’s story. I wish every series did this. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Arend Aubury, 5th Baron of Labourd, has learned the hard way to trust no one. Especially a woman. Aside from his fellow Libertine Scholars, he places faith in no one, But even his friends don’t know the secrets he hides. Secrets that would make them see him for the dishonorable man he thinks he is. He feels responsible for the villainess seeking to destroy his friends and wonders if her beautiful stepdaughter, Isobel, is conspiring with her. Perhaps he’ll have to seduce her to expose her secrets. And the thought of that excites him.
Lady Isobel Thompson yearns to escape her stepmother and is anxious to find a husband by the end of the season. Arend was sinfully beautiful. A desirable man but not a desirable husband. Still, he is the man she must turn to for help if she is to prove that her stepmother, Victoria, is responsible for the fire that killed Isobel’s father.
Arend suspects this is just a ploy by Isobel to aid Victoria. Whether Isobel is innocent or not, he knows he’ll have to play the game of double cross carefully until he knows for certain which side she’s on. So he suggests a betrothal. A pretend one only. Of course, they’d have to make it believable. A kiss here, a touch there. “For her sake he hoped he could resist her. For her sake he hoped she could resist him.” But given the way she made him feel, that was unlikely.
What follows is an epic story with the Libertine Scholars and Isobel on a wild chase across England. Full of kidnappings and attacks, and slippery Victoria always seemingly one step ahead of them, this story will leave you breathless. Victoria is doing all she can to make Isobel appear duplicitous. Can the Libertine Scholars and their wives trust her? And more importantly, can Arend?
A beautiful story of two people who wanted each other desperately but feared the other didn’t feel the same. Two people who had to learn to trust each other and themselves. At times, it felt like they had a long road ahead of them, but oh what a glorious journey!.
Arend is definitely the darker, more brooding of the Libertine Scholars. He had lived in true poverty after his family escaped France. No one, not even his friends, know what happened to him during those 5 years before he made his fortune in the diamond mines of Brazil. He’d sunk as low as a man could go and when he’d dared to think he could rise above his past, a beautiful woman had made him party to his best friend’s murder. Guilt ate at him every day and left an aching void in his soul. He didn’t deserve happiness or love. Any woman who wanted him had to have an ulterior motive. As his feelings for Isobel grow, he wants to trust her but is still haunted by the betrayals of his past. If Isobel was telling the truth, he could not tie himself to someone as innocent and pure as her. She could never be his. He must keep his distance and when this is over, she can marry someone who deserves her. No woman could love him when he couldn’t even love himself. But he wanted her to want him as much as he needed her. If only her innocence could cleanse his soul.
When her father married Victoria, Isobel decided love was a lie and wanted to marry any man so that she could “escape the hypocrisy of such a home”. She never thought about wanting a love match until she’d seen what the wives of the Libertine Scholars had. She was drawn to Arend but knew he only valued her as a means to defeat Victoria. He was handsome but there was “a darkness to him that would never let in the light”. She’d be a fool to lose her heart to him. When Arend suggests a fake betrothal to make Victoria think her plan was succeeding, Isobel knows she must be careful or she could become one of his discarded conquests. She must remind herself that it’s all a game. One she mustn’t lose or she could lose everything. She knows this move by Arend has nothing to do with love. Yet, at times, he seemed to feel real affection for her and she was finding herself falling in love with him. How did a woman know if a man loved her? Could she trust him with her heart? Arend hid pain and secrets. It hurt to know he couldn’t trust her but she couldn’t turn her back on his pain. She would love him no matter what he’d done because of the wonderful man he was now. She’d treat him with love, tenderness, and understanding until he could open his heart to her. But could he?
If you haven’t followed this series from the beginning, you are missing out on an absolutely brilliant romance full of passion, dark and dangerous secrets, dashing, honorable men, and the beautiful, strong women who love them. Arend’s story was perfect and exceeded my imagination. I’m most excited to know this isn’t the end of this series as Ms. Evans plans to write the stories of some of the secondary characters. Personally, I’m hoping army surgeon Sean Colbert is among them. Also, I really loved the preface from Christian and the “Meet the Libertine Scholars” section to refresh my memory of each character’s story. I wish every series did this. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
August 26, 2016
***I received this arc courtesy of Netgallery and Random House Publishing in exchange for an honest review***
I was prepared to give this book 1.5 stars but after a second thought about Isobel, I decided to knock that half star off. I have not been this annoyed at a character before and I'm annoyed that I'm annoyed.
I read this book for the sake of completion even though I did not enjoy the previous books. There seems to be a steady decline in the writing with each book. Arend had left me fascinated since the first book so I decided to brave it
I'm so glad it has ended.
spoilers ahead
This book starts after the tragedy of book 4, when Marisa had an accident, that was the book I disliked the most. I could not for the life of me fathom why Bronwen Evans went on a rampage with all the misfortune that befell the characters.
This entire series hinges on the villainy of Lady Victoria. The entire 6 books, you would think she is a criminal mastermind with the amount of time it took to apprehend her. It took six book! She had just one accomplice, just 1! It wasn't even believable that she was the one behind the entire thing. I was expecting someone older, more jaded or something ! Six Lords that have somehow named themselves the "Libertine Scholars" could not apprehend her, it's unfathomable.
Some few things I had issues with ;
1. Isobel describes her stepmother as being "a little older" than her. She was 13 at the time where she was raped by the fathers of the libertine scholars. By my calculation, she would have opened her brothel at 20 or at the most 24. Where did the funds come from. How?
2. What was with her divulging all the plans of her friends if she suspects her stepmother could be so evil. Why?
3. Towards the end, the housekeeper happens to enter the room to restock the coal and hears Isobel and Arend discussing about their plans and offers them a piece of information about tunnels. How bloody convenient . First off, Arend and Isobel were sort of trying to be discreet so I wonder why they would let the housekeeper walk in on them. Then also , with their suspicions of everyone around them , especially Arend, you'll think they would stop the conversation when someone not in the "Inner circle" could overhear. So not only does this housekeeper overhear the secret plan but she also knows the locations of the tunnels. The same could be said for the hairpins that she conveniently had and used as trail. How many pins she had, I wonder.
That is to name a few, not to mention the sudden reappearance of her dead father. The convenient appearance of a doctor she knows just when she needs him.
I really could not understand the attraction between Arend and Isobel. It was never there. He was just using her and she was starry eyed whenever he was around. I did not understand why she was hurt and betrayed .
Also, If there's something I really hate in a book , it's a heroine that's bent up on healing the hero. C'mon, who says that?! Isobel got on my every nerve with her thoughts of healing him. It made the book tedious to read.
I had no main issue with Arend, other than his sad story that was not really sad if his friend had not died. Thanks to Bronwen Evans, the death of her characters mean nothing to me, I have zero sympathy. Isobel on the other hand, she is probably amongst my top 20 hated heroines. She was almost TSTL.
I was prepared to give this book 1.5 stars but after a second thought about Isobel, I decided to knock that half star off. I have not been this annoyed at a character before and I'm annoyed that I'm annoyed.
I read this book for the sake of completion even though I did not enjoy the previous books. There seems to be a steady decline in the writing with each book. Arend had left me fascinated since the first book so I decided to brave it
I'm so glad it has ended.
spoilers ahead
This book starts after the tragedy of book 4, when Marisa had an accident, that was the book I disliked the most. I could not for the life of me fathom why Bronwen Evans went on a rampage with all the misfortune that befell the characters.
This entire series hinges on the villainy of Lady Victoria. The entire 6 books, you would think she is a criminal mastermind with the amount of time it took to apprehend her. It took six book! She had just one accomplice, just 1! It wasn't even believable that she was the one behind the entire thing. I was expecting someone older, more jaded or something ! Six Lords that have somehow named themselves the "Libertine Scholars" could not apprehend her, it's unfathomable.
Some few things I had issues with ;
1. Isobel describes her stepmother as being "a little older" than her. She was 13 at the time where she was raped by the fathers of the libertine scholars. By my calculation, she would have opened her brothel at 20 or at the most 24. Where did the funds come from. How?
2. What was with her divulging all the plans of her friends if she suspects her stepmother could be so evil. Why?
3. Towards the end, the housekeeper happens to enter the room to restock the coal and hears Isobel and Arend discussing about their plans and offers them a piece of information about tunnels. How bloody convenient . First off, Arend and Isobel were sort of trying to be discreet so I wonder why they would let the housekeeper walk in on them. Then also , with their suspicions of everyone around them , especially Arend, you'll think they would stop the conversation when someone not in the "Inner circle" could overhear. So not only does this housekeeper overhear the secret plan but she also knows the locations of the tunnels. The same could be said for the hairpins that she conveniently had and used as trail. How many pins she had, I wonder.
That is to name a few, not to mention the sudden reappearance of her dead father. The convenient appearance of a doctor she knows just when she needs him.
I really could not understand the attraction between Arend and Isobel. It was never there. He was just using her and she was starry eyed whenever he was around. I did not understand why she was hurt and betrayed .
Also, If there's something I really hate in a book , it's a heroine that's bent up on healing the hero. C'mon, who says that?! Isobel got on my every nerve with her thoughts of healing him. It made the book tedious to read.
I had no main issue with Arend, other than his sad story that was not really sad if his friend had not died. Thanks to Bronwen Evans, the death of her characters mean nothing to me, I have zero sympathy. Isobel on the other hand, she is probably amongst my top 20 hated heroines. She was almost TSTL.
August 31, 2016
*** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a true and honest review.***
Arend and Isobel story is built on mistrust, misunderstanding and a lot of suspense. In a nutshell, it is a great story. The author’s choice to call this series “the Disgraced Lords” is very appropriate.
Arend does not trust anybody, especially a beautiful woman like Isobel. Arend is going through an emotional battle and with his logical mind. How can this woman, Isobel, make him feel all sorts away, but so connected to the Libertine Scholars enemy? His desire for Isobel makes him drop his guard. Woman in his past have caused him to have severe trust issues, plus no one knows his secrets except the obvious enemy. Can Arend get past this and find out the truth to Isobel?
Isobel knows no one trusts her really. They all see her as villain like her step-mother. But Isobel needs help finding out the truth about her father’s death, who better to help than Arend. Can Isobel make Arend see her for her, a beautiful woman that he can trust what she says regardless to what it looks like?
This story number 6 of the The Disgraced Lords series. I do suggest reading all the previous stories so that you can understand the determination that Arend has. I have been a fan of Bronwen Evans from the beginning. I love how the author brought us through this suspense and romance. I am so glad that we will be able to see these characters again for Rose, Helen and Phillip’s story. Great writing. You will not be disappointed.
Arend and Isobel story is built on mistrust, misunderstanding and a lot of suspense. In a nutshell, it is a great story. The author’s choice to call this series “the Disgraced Lords” is very appropriate.
Arend does not trust anybody, especially a beautiful woman like Isobel. Arend is going through an emotional battle and with his logical mind. How can this woman, Isobel, make him feel all sorts away, but so connected to the Libertine Scholars enemy? His desire for Isobel makes him drop his guard. Woman in his past have caused him to have severe trust issues, plus no one knows his secrets except the obvious enemy. Can Arend get past this and find out the truth to Isobel?
Isobel knows no one trusts her really. They all see her as villain like her step-mother. But Isobel needs help finding out the truth about her father’s death, who better to help than Arend. Can Isobel make Arend see her for her, a beautiful woman that he can trust what she says regardless to what it looks like?
This story number 6 of the The Disgraced Lords series. I do suggest reading all the previous stories so that you can understand the determination that Arend has. I have been a fan of Bronwen Evans from the beginning. I love how the author brought us through this suspense and romance. I am so glad that we will be able to see these characters again for Rose, Helen and Phillip’s story. Great writing. You will not be disappointed.
August 25, 2016
A Night of Forever ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Written by Bronwen Evans
(The Disgraced Lords #6)
As an avid follower of Ms Evans I couldn't wait for this book but also the final apprehension of the villainous. Ms Evans is at the top of her game with this story. I hope the series continues there are certain characters I want to see a HEA ending happen.
As to the story, Arend Aubury the darkest of the Libertine Scholars is revealed for his true self and the revelations is on spot for what I as a reader expected.
When he finally recognizes Isobel Thompson as an aid to his quest the book certainly heats up. Both of these characters are somewhat flawed but Isobel can recognize the good in Arend and brings Arend around to accept himself as a good man who has experienced many pitfalls many not of his own doing.
Ms Evans writes of deep characters with flaws but redeemed. Her love scenes are hotter than hot. This is a book I waited for as her fan and was not disappointed.
I received this copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
(The Disgraced Lords #6)
As an avid follower of Ms Evans I couldn't wait for this book but also the final apprehension of the villainous. Ms Evans is at the top of her game with this story. I hope the series continues there are certain characters I want to see a HEA ending happen.
As to the story, Arend Aubury the darkest of the Libertine Scholars is revealed for his true self and the revelations is on spot for what I as a reader expected.
When he finally recognizes Isobel Thompson as an aid to his quest the book certainly heats up. Both of these characters are somewhat flawed but Isobel can recognize the good in Arend and brings Arend around to accept himself as a good man who has experienced many pitfalls many not of his own doing.
Ms Evans writes of deep characters with flaws but redeemed. Her love scenes are hotter than hot. This is a book I waited for as her fan and was not disappointed.
I received this copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
August 24, 2016
**I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I loved this book - Arend has intrigued me since the beginning of the series and I was desperate for his story!
Arend is hot on the trail of their villainess and is convinced that Isobel is in cahoots with her. He plans to seduce the truth out of her and then have her pay for her crimes along with Victoria. We finally learn about his mysterious past and the reasons for his determination to bring Victoria down.
Isobel wants Arend to help her prove that Victoria killed her father - she knows that he doesn't trust her and that he thinks she is working with her step-mother against the Scholars - but nothing could be further from the truth. She hates Victoria and will do whatever it takes to bring her to justice.
Arend and Isobel decide to work together, mainly because it seems like Victoria is trying to get them together to further her evil plans and they must play along to find out exactly what she is up to.
Arend begins to vacillate on his position of Isobel's guilt - one minute he believes she is innocent and in the next he is convinced that she is evil incarnate - it does get a little old, but once the details of his past begin to come out, it made it much easier for this reader to understand his indecision and at time hasty judgements.
Isobel begins to fall for Arend and knows that he harbors secrets - she wants to help him move on from the past, but goes about it the wrong way. She is hurt over and over again not only by Arend but by all the scholars and their wives when she realizes that none of them really trusts her. She doesn't know what she can do to prove herself and somehow every time something happens it seems like Isobel is right in the middle of it.
When Victoria's evil plan finally comes to life - it might be too late for Isobel.
This book was perhaps not as romantic as the previous books, but it was just as hot and just as emotional. Arend's past is heart breaking and Isobel's determination to heal him is fierce - but can love truly conquer all? Can there be true love without trust? Can a person shaped by the past ever have a future that is not tainted by that past? To find out you will have to read Arend and Isobel's story.
While I highly recommend this book, I would definitely recommend reading this series in order - I don't think you can really appreciate this book without having read the other books first.
I have enjoyed this series so much and as satisfying as this ending was - I am sorry that it is over! So, as you can imagine, I was thrilled to see that Ms. Evans has decided to extend this series to include Phillip and Rose's story, as well as a story for Helen!
I loved this book - Arend has intrigued me since the beginning of the series and I was desperate for his story!
Arend is hot on the trail of their villainess and is convinced that Isobel is in cahoots with her. He plans to seduce the truth out of her and then have her pay for her crimes along with Victoria. We finally learn about his mysterious past and the reasons for his determination to bring Victoria down.
Isobel wants Arend to help her prove that Victoria killed her father - she knows that he doesn't trust her and that he thinks she is working with her step-mother against the Scholars - but nothing could be further from the truth. She hates Victoria and will do whatever it takes to bring her to justice.
Arend and Isobel decide to work together, mainly because it seems like Victoria is trying to get them together to further her evil plans and they must play along to find out exactly what she is up to.
Arend begins to vacillate on his position of Isobel's guilt - one minute he believes she is innocent and in the next he is convinced that she is evil incarnate - it does get a little old, but once the details of his past begin to come out, it made it much easier for this reader to understand his indecision and at time hasty judgements.
Isobel begins to fall for Arend and knows that he harbors secrets - she wants to help him move on from the past, but goes about it the wrong way. She is hurt over and over again not only by Arend but by all the scholars and their wives when she realizes that none of them really trusts her. She doesn't know what she can do to prove herself and somehow every time something happens it seems like Isobel is right in the middle of it.
When Victoria's evil plan finally comes to life - it might be too late for Isobel.
This book was perhaps not as romantic as the previous books, but it was just as hot and just as emotional. Arend's past is heart breaking and Isobel's determination to heal him is fierce - but can love truly conquer all? Can there be true love without trust? Can a person shaped by the past ever have a future that is not tainted by that past? To find out you will have to read Arend and Isobel's story.
While I highly recommend this book, I would definitely recommend reading this series in order - I don't think you can really appreciate this book without having read the other books first.
I have enjoyed this series so much and as satisfying as this ending was - I am sorry that it is over! So, as you can imagine, I was thrilled to see that Ms. Evans has decided to extend this series to include Phillip and Rose's story, as well as a story for Helen!
September 2, 2016
This is the sixth book in the series & is the final ‘Disgraced Lords’ story Arend Aubury, Lord Labourd. Arend trusts no one besides his fellow Libertine Scholars & he definitely distrusts women. His family escaped from France, penniless and persecuted, only the Scholars took him in. Isobel Thompson. Stepdaughter of the villainess who has been plotting against them approaches Arend with allegations against their enemy, he definitely suspects a double cross. Lady Isobel believes that her stepmother is responsible for her father's death, and only Arend has the skills to uncover the truth. As a cover, Arend suggests a fake betrothal—and soon Isobel finds herself forgetting that their courtship is a ploy. He's so different from the man of her fantasies, and yet he's so terribly handsome, so dangerously intoxicating—and all Isobel wants is more.
Isobel has featured in the previous books & the jury was definitely out on whether she is part of the plot & the Libertine Scholars have wondered whose side she is on, although Marisa has defended Isobel throughout.
This book is told more from Isobel’s point of view & does cover some of the events from previous books. I’d eagerly awaited this book having been hooked on the previous books in the series. I wanted the mystery solved & for Arend to get his HEA.
I’ve loved the series & would recommend reading the series in order. If reading a series I have to start at the beginning! This book could be read as a stand-alone especially with Christian’s preface that sets the scene.
This was a satisfying conclusion to the Libertine Scholars stories & I look forward to the series concluding with Helen’s & Philip’s stories. This wasn’t my favourite book of the series, Arend has been cool, calculating, dangerous & aloof throughout the series, so I hadn’t warmed to him as much as the other ‘Scholars’. The reasons behind his demeanour are explained & by the end I did find him likeable. The chemistry between Arend & Isobel was there but he fought it which was understandable given his past.
I received an ARC copy
Isobel has featured in the previous books & the jury was definitely out on whether she is part of the plot & the Libertine Scholars have wondered whose side she is on, although Marisa has defended Isobel throughout.
This book is told more from Isobel’s point of view & does cover some of the events from previous books. I’d eagerly awaited this book having been hooked on the previous books in the series. I wanted the mystery solved & for Arend to get his HEA.
I’ve loved the series & would recommend reading the series in order. If reading a series I have to start at the beginning! This book could be read as a stand-alone especially with Christian’s preface that sets the scene.
This was a satisfying conclusion to the Libertine Scholars stories & I look forward to the series concluding with Helen’s & Philip’s stories. This wasn’t my favourite book of the series, Arend has been cool, calculating, dangerous & aloof throughout the series, so I hadn’t warmed to him as much as the other ‘Scholars’. The reasons behind his demeanour are explained & by the end I did find him likeable. The chemistry between Arend & Isobel was there but he fought it which was understandable given his past.
I received an ARC copy
October 25, 2016
Tortured trust and love!
Arend Aubury as the emotionally fractured Frenchman, gorgeous to behold and trusting no-one is a wonderful hero. Lady Isobel Thompson as the step daughter of the despicable Victoria is a beauty inside and out.
Of course the page sizzles whenever they meet and that sizzling increases in fervour as time goes on. (Almost too much sizzle and not enough story.) Isobel's vengeful stepmother Victoria appears to be trying to engineer an engagement between Isobel and Arente. They enter into a mock engagement in an attempt to entrap Victoria.
For those who don't know, Victoria has been systematically trying to destroy the members of the Libertine Scholars to pay for their father's dreadful sins against her (and given the extent of their depravities one can see why she is so gripped with the need for retribution).
The point is that none of the Libertines have been like their fathers. In fact their fathers disgusted them. But Victoria must take her vengeance somewhere. Isobel has become a weapon Victoria will use against Arente.
The Scholars are highly sceptical about Isobel. Is she a willing pawn of Victoria's? Their wives are more generous.
Arente is tortured by his own secrets about his life prior to returning to England, a wealthy man. Unlike when he left. Those secrets, or rather shames, have left him unable to trust or want to trust women. Isobel must fight almost unto death and then some to unearth that trust. Can she however help him to come to terms with his past? I must admit at times I found Arente a little too tortured and his inability to fully trust Isobel a little to drawn. A little to unforgiving of himself and others. But then maybe that's the point of self loathing as he displays it.
This addition to the Libertine Scholars annals rounds off the series, although there will apparently be two more novels featuring other characters that have emerged over time.
A NetGalley ARC
Arend Aubury as the emotionally fractured Frenchman, gorgeous to behold and trusting no-one is a wonderful hero. Lady Isobel Thompson as the step daughter of the despicable Victoria is a beauty inside and out.
Of course the page sizzles whenever they meet and that sizzling increases in fervour as time goes on. (Almost too much sizzle and not enough story.) Isobel's vengeful stepmother Victoria appears to be trying to engineer an engagement between Isobel and Arente. They enter into a mock engagement in an attempt to entrap Victoria.
For those who don't know, Victoria has been systematically trying to destroy the members of the Libertine Scholars to pay for their father's dreadful sins against her (and given the extent of their depravities one can see why she is so gripped with the need for retribution).
The point is that none of the Libertines have been like their fathers. In fact their fathers disgusted them. But Victoria must take her vengeance somewhere. Isobel has become a weapon Victoria will use against Arente.
The Scholars are highly sceptical about Isobel. Is she a willing pawn of Victoria's? Their wives are more generous.
Arente is tortured by his own secrets about his life prior to returning to England, a wealthy man. Unlike when he left. Those secrets, or rather shames, have left him unable to trust or want to trust women. Isobel must fight almost unto death and then some to unearth that trust. Can she however help him to come to terms with his past? I must admit at times I found Arente a little too tortured and his inability to fully trust Isobel a little to drawn. A little to unforgiving of himself and others. But then maybe that's the point of self loathing as he displays it.
This addition to the Libertine Scholars annals rounds off the series, although there will apparently be two more novels featuring other characters that have emerged over time.
A NetGalley ARC
November 1, 2016
ARC REVIEW
Boy did I jump into this series on the wrong book. Book six of Bronwen Evans' The Disgraced Lords series and the conclusion of the continuing story arc. It is not the last there are still two characters she wants (Needs) to give a HEA. Unfortunately I didn't like it enough to want to go back and read the other books. ( 2.5 stars at best) The main characters I could not connect to, Arend was way to whinny about how he's not good enough and his pride was way too much and Isobel was kind of annoying with how needy she seemed to be. It got annoying that only one person out of the entire twelve(ish) characters believed her. They were way too passive aggressive and there was no chemistry no romance just lust and mistrust. Not having read the previous five books it was a little confusing on what was going on and what happened and with whom. There was no mystery they know who did it they are just trying to get evidence to prove she was behind it all, and even that conclusion was disappointing. What I did like were the secondary characters; I could tell with them there was chemistry and love between them.
I don't even want to summarize the story I'm afraid I'll write in a spoiler, and I won't do that.
Overall, the whole story felt a little contrived. While I did like some aspects of the book it wasn't enough to enjoy the book. I liked Marissa's unwavering loyalty in her friend. I liked how Arend actually admitted he had a moment of doubt at the end but immediately realized he was being foolish. The active setting was good, I could easily picture the events and the characters surroundings.
Boy did I jump into this series on the wrong book. Book six of Bronwen Evans' The Disgraced Lords series and the conclusion of the continuing story arc. It is not the last there are still two characters she wants (Needs) to give a HEA. Unfortunately I didn't like it enough to want to go back and read the other books. ( 2.5 stars at best) The main characters I could not connect to, Arend was way to whinny about how he's not good enough and his pride was way too much and Isobel was kind of annoying with how needy she seemed to be. It got annoying that only one person out of the entire twelve(ish) characters believed her. They were way too passive aggressive and there was no chemistry no romance just lust and mistrust. Not having read the previous five books it was a little confusing on what was going on and what happened and with whom. There was no mystery they know who did it they are just trying to get evidence to prove she was behind it all, and even that conclusion was disappointing. What I did like were the secondary characters; I could tell with them there was chemistry and love between them.
I don't even want to summarize the story I'm afraid I'll write in a spoiler, and I won't do that.
Overall, the whole story felt a little contrived. While I did like some aspects of the book it wasn't enough to enjoy the book. I liked Marissa's unwavering loyalty in her friend. I liked how Arend actually admitted he had a moment of doubt at the end but immediately realized he was being foolish. The active setting was good, I could easily picture the events and the characters surroundings.
August 20, 2016
I've read a few of the books in the series before this one and they were okay. I'm being very generous with the stars here. This book had so many inconsistencies, it became a struggle just to get through it.
Isobel and Arend had no chemistry as a couple. Their passive-aggressive relationship wasn't engaging to the reader and I mostly wanted to slap both of them.
The story has so many inconsistencies and deus ex machina that I can't list them all.. Here's a few. Isobel's father was so broke that he had to marry Victoria, yet two years later he left her a fabulous heiress. Then he was poor again, then he was rich. Apparently, he was only poor when it was necessary to justify his marriage; otherwise, he was rich.
Tunnels conveniently appear, dead people show up for no reason, soldiers appear to rescue the heroine - all calling for total suspension of belief. These 'scholars' have no real plans, but gallop all over the country along with their wives.. Regency customs and speech are often disregarded by the author.. The villain is unbelievable.
This book was kind of a mess. Maybe some other readers will enjoy it, but it was not for me.
Isobel and Arend had no chemistry as a couple. Their passive-aggressive relationship wasn't engaging to the reader and I mostly wanted to slap both of them.
The story has so many inconsistencies and deus ex machina that I can't list them all.. Here's a few. Isobel's father was so broke that he had to marry Victoria, yet two years later he left her a fabulous heiress. Then he was poor again, then he was rich. Apparently, he was only poor when it was necessary to justify his marriage; otherwise, he was rich.
Tunnels conveniently appear, dead people show up for no reason, soldiers appear to rescue the heroine - all calling for total suspension of belief. These 'scholars' have no real plans, but gallop all over the country along with their wives.. Regency customs and speech are often disregarded by the author.. The villain is unbelievable.
This book was kind of a mess. Maybe some other readers will enjoy it, but it was not for me.
October 13, 2016
This is the last installment in this series and I'm happy because the stories were going worse. Isobel and Arend have many open questions between them and probably he is the most brooding in the libertine scholars. She is also far too good to him in my opinion. I'm not super happy about the ending but at last this wasn't a never ending story.
Questo é l'ultimo volume della serie e sono contenta soprattutto perché stavo notando un certo peggioramento nella qualitá della serie. Isobel ed Arend hanno parecchie questioni in sospeso tra loro e inoltre lui é il piú tormentato tra i libertine scholars. Lei, inoltre, mi sembra fin troppo buona nei suoi confronti. Non sono quindi super entusiasta di come finisca la serie, ma almeno l'autrice ci ha messo un punto.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
Questo é l'ultimo volume della serie e sono contenta soprattutto perché stavo notando un certo peggioramento nella qualitá della serie. Isobel ed Arend hanno parecchie questioni in sospeso tra loro e inoltre lui é il piú tormentato tra i libertine scholars. Lei, inoltre, mi sembra fin troppo buona nei suoi confronti. Non sono quindi super entusiasta di come finisca la serie, ma almeno l'autrice ci ha messo un punto.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
November 5, 2016
A great opening chapter, it really grabbed my attention and held it throughout the book. Brilliant characters, as we know from previous books, and the thrilling plot is full of twists and turns.
I absolutely love the Disgraced Lords series. I'm well into this series.
Through this series not a lot is known about Arend - he seems most mysterious and dark to me, but oh so captivating. I think we girls like a dark hero with problems.
Imo, this is the best story up to now. Even though I love them all, for me, this particular episode is my favourite.
Good news: there are going to be more from this series!
A massive 5*****
I absolutely love the Disgraced Lords series. I'm well into this series.
Through this series not a lot is known about Arend - he seems most mysterious and dark to me, but oh so captivating. I think we girls like a dark hero with problems.
Imo, this is the best story up to now. Even though I love them all, for me, this particular episode is my favourite.
Good news: there are going to be more from this series!
A massive 5*****
January 19, 2017
Arend passe tout le roman à alterner entre croire l’héroïne coupable et la croire innocente, tout en rêvant de la mettre dans son lit mais en souhaitant ne pas la compromettre. Je ne sais pas comment ils en viennent à s’aimer malgré toute la méfiance mutuelle.
Avis complet https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Avis complet https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 25, 2016
I would like to thank Bronwen Evans, Loveswept, and Penguin Random House for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Isobel Thompson finds herself ensnared in a revenge plot when Arend Aubrey, aka Baron Labourd, begins to suspect her stepmother, Victoria Thompson, aka Lady Northumberland, of being the culprit behind the attacks on his friends, known collectively as the Libertine Scholars, and their wives. Arend can’t figure out if Isobel is in league with her stepmother or if she’s as much a target as himself. He gets close to her, trying to riddle out the mystery, and develops feelings for her in the process. He comes to love her—but the question is, can he trust her?
I enjoyed this story, but several things bothered me. The writing style didn’t necessarily—there were several clever descriptions and metaphors—but there was some purple prose, especially in the dialogue toward the end, that had me sighing impatiently and skimming through the passage. But some people like that in their romance, so all right. The fact that this was the sixth book in a series (the others of which I have not read) gave me trouble. From the very beginning, I felt like I was missing something because I hadn’t read the first five books. Not that Evans didn’t try to make it stand alone, she explained what she needed to, but the Libertine Scholars were very involved in the history of the story. I wish she’d included a “cast of characters” roster in the front. She listed everyone and their title within the story, but then I’m expected to remember them as well as figure out whose wives and children are whose. And with each person having a name and title…I’d much prefer to just have a list to refer to.
The plot was okay. I was intrigued by the suspense subplot, but not too invested in Arend and Isobel’s HEA. I didn’t really connect to either of them. As far as pacing, it surprised me. What I thought would be the climactic scene actually happened about a third of the way through, which got me excited to see what other action was coming down the pipeline. And I wasn’t disappointed…but there was a moment of lost momentum in the middle where I was waiting for something to happen. Speaking of surprise—I was going along, reading what I thought was a typical romance…then Arend’s memories rather shocked me. Maybe it’s just me, but I didn’t expect it to be raunchy and explicit. I’ve read raunchier and more explicit romances, of course; I just didn’t expect it in a historical. I always felt historicals thought they were raunchy in a self-aware, wink-wink-giggle-giggle way, because sex was so scandalous back then. Regardless, I perceived it as a tonal shift. Not major, and not necessarily a bad thing, but I realized I was reading a different kind of story than I’d first thought.
Onto the characters. Isobel seemed like a nice girl, but she pissed me off. She was a paradox, a walking contradiction. Her intentions flip-flopped, at least in my opinion. I first got confused in chapter one, when she was thinking about approaching Arend and asking for his help—but when he headed toward her and asked her to dance, she pushed her friend at him so she could avoid him. If she was the strong woman we’re told she is, she would have lifted her chin and seized the opportunity no matter how nervous or uncomfortable she was. THEN there was a scene that was such a cluster of a mixed message that I shook my head as I read it. So Isobel and Arend have major trust issues between them, more him than her. Her solution to getting over those issues is to go back to his place unescorted, tell him she wants to be his friend and get to know him, share a little emotional baggage—tip of the iceberg—then seduce him. He tells her that seducing him is not the way to get to know him, but she’s so horny she won’t take no for an answer. Seriously. That’s the other thing about Isobel—I never understood how she fell in love with Arend. I know she believed he was a good man because if he wasn’t, he wouldn’t have the regard of the LS, but otherwise all she thought about from chapter one was how sexy he was and how she’d like to be debauched by him. Sure, she wondered about being married to him, but not primarily because she loved him. She wondered because 1) they pretended to be engaged, 2) she wanted to go to bed with him, 3) she’s lonely and desperate for children. And because she’s attracted to Arend—and to having the Libertine Wives as friends—she decided he was the only one that would do for her. Because physical attraction is the most important part of a relationship. I’m not even sure they had much in common… I had major issues with her reasoning; her thought process didn’t make sense to me.
Arend didn’t frustrate me as much. However, while I didn’t mind his flashbacks, I did get confused on which woman from his past did what. I think Juliette branded him…and I’m still not sure who Daniela was. Juliette seemed like the important part. Anyway, he seemed nice enough save for the trust issues, but were I Isobel, I’d have gone for Lieutenant Colbert no matter how attracted to Arend I was.
There were other contradictions littered throughout the book. For example, toward the beginning, Arend can’t make up his mind if Isobel is guilty or not, and at one point he thinks she isn’t capable of deception…meanwhile, Isobel is successfully convincing Victoria that she doesn’t want anything to do with Arend. So can Isobel put on an act or can’t she? Also, Victoria and Dufort kidnapped Isobel then left her unbound in a room with a weapon. I had a hard time believing they would be that stupid.
And finally—fun fact for the day! I got a curious bee up my bonnet and Googled “scandal sheet,” mostly because I couldn’t believe it was a real thing. It was, but I don’t think the term was used until 1905-ish. This book is set in 1816. It’s neither here nor there.
noapologybookreviews.com
Lady Isobel Thompson finds herself ensnared in a revenge plot when Arend Aubrey, aka Baron Labourd, begins to suspect her stepmother, Victoria Thompson, aka Lady Northumberland, of being the culprit behind the attacks on his friends, known collectively as the Libertine Scholars, and their wives. Arend can’t figure out if Isobel is in league with her stepmother or if she’s as much a target as himself. He gets close to her, trying to riddle out the mystery, and develops feelings for her in the process. He comes to love her—but the question is, can he trust her?
I enjoyed this story, but several things bothered me. The writing style didn’t necessarily—there were several clever descriptions and metaphors—but there was some purple prose, especially in the dialogue toward the end, that had me sighing impatiently and skimming through the passage. But some people like that in their romance, so all right. The fact that this was the sixth book in a series (the others of which I have not read) gave me trouble. From the very beginning, I felt like I was missing something because I hadn’t read the first five books. Not that Evans didn’t try to make it stand alone, she explained what she needed to, but the Libertine Scholars were very involved in the history of the story. I wish she’d included a “cast of characters” roster in the front. She listed everyone and their title within the story, but then I’m expected to remember them as well as figure out whose wives and children are whose. And with each person having a name and title…I’d much prefer to just have a list to refer to.
The plot was okay. I was intrigued by the suspense subplot, but not too invested in Arend and Isobel’s HEA. I didn’t really connect to either of them. As far as pacing, it surprised me. What I thought would be the climactic scene actually happened about a third of the way through, which got me excited to see what other action was coming down the pipeline. And I wasn’t disappointed…but there was a moment of lost momentum in the middle where I was waiting for something to happen. Speaking of surprise—I was going along, reading what I thought was a typical romance…then Arend’s memories rather shocked me. Maybe it’s just me, but I didn’t expect it to be raunchy and explicit. I’ve read raunchier and more explicit romances, of course; I just didn’t expect it in a historical. I always felt historicals thought they were raunchy in a self-aware, wink-wink-giggle-giggle way, because sex was so scandalous back then. Regardless, I perceived it as a tonal shift. Not major, and not necessarily a bad thing, but I realized I was reading a different kind of story than I’d first thought.
Onto the characters. Isobel seemed like a nice girl, but she pissed me off. She was a paradox, a walking contradiction. Her intentions flip-flopped, at least in my opinion. I first got confused in chapter one, when she was thinking about approaching Arend and asking for his help—but when he headed toward her and asked her to dance, she pushed her friend at him so she could avoid him. If she was the strong woman we’re told she is, she would have lifted her chin and seized the opportunity no matter how nervous or uncomfortable she was. THEN there was a scene that was such a cluster of a mixed message that I shook my head as I read it. So Isobel and Arend have major trust issues between them, more him than her. Her solution to getting over those issues is to go back to his place unescorted, tell him she wants to be his friend and get to know him, share a little emotional baggage—tip of the iceberg—then seduce him. He tells her that seducing him is not the way to get to know him, but she’s so horny she won’t take no for an answer. Seriously. That’s the other thing about Isobel—I never understood how she fell in love with Arend. I know she believed he was a good man because if he wasn’t, he wouldn’t have the regard of the LS, but otherwise all she thought about from chapter one was how sexy he was and how she’d like to be debauched by him. Sure, she wondered about being married to him, but not primarily because she loved him. She wondered because 1) they pretended to be engaged, 2) she wanted to go to bed with him, 3) she’s lonely and desperate for children. And because she’s attracted to Arend—and to having the Libertine Wives as friends—she decided he was the only one that would do for her. Because physical attraction is the most important part of a relationship. I’m not even sure they had much in common… I had major issues with her reasoning; her thought process didn’t make sense to me.
Arend didn’t frustrate me as much. However, while I didn’t mind his flashbacks, I did get confused on which woman from his past did what. I think Juliette branded him…and I’m still not sure who Daniela was. Juliette seemed like the important part. Anyway, he seemed nice enough save for the trust issues, but were I Isobel, I’d have gone for Lieutenant Colbert no matter how attracted to Arend I was.
There were other contradictions littered throughout the book. For example, toward the beginning, Arend can’t make up his mind if Isobel is guilty or not, and at one point he thinks she isn’t capable of deception…meanwhile, Isobel is successfully convincing Victoria that she doesn’t want anything to do with Arend. So can Isobel put on an act or can’t she? Also, Victoria and Dufort kidnapped Isobel then left her unbound in a room with a weapon. I had a hard time believing they would be that stupid.
And finally—fun fact for the day! I got a curious bee up my bonnet and Googled “scandal sheet,” mostly because I couldn’t believe it was a real thing. It was, but I don’t think the term was used until 1905-ish. This book is set in 1816. It’s neither here nor there.
noapologybookreviews.com
November 27, 2016
***I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review, which was originally posted on book blog Will Read for Feels.
I’ve followed Bronwen Evans’ Lords of Disgrace, AKA the Libertine Scholars, for much of their journey as they fought to thwart the efforts of a woman bent on vengeance on them for the sins of their fathers. That journey came to an end with the final book in the series, A Night of Forever, which was released on October 25.
I’ve been looking forward to this story, specifically Arend and Isobel’s story, for a while now. Mostly because, in previous books, I’ve come to enjoy the way they interact. After all, Arend’s blatant suspicion of Isobel’s motives causes a lot of vitriol between the two characters, and this is true through much of this book as well, but both characters’ personalities have had a way of shining through each encounter, and their coming to care for one another was, to my eyes, simply a matter of time. Or, rather, of waiting for the other books in the series to be published and the other couples to find their way to one another.
Arend and Isobel were always going to be the series-closer, to my mind! This was because of the mystery shrouding Isobel’s relationship with the villain of the series, who has been responsible for a load of grief through all six books.
Much of the mystery was unraveled in book 5, but as a large part of A Night of Forever takes place concurrently with that volume of the series, it’s handled in such a way that even if you haven’t read the previous book, you likely won’t lose too much in the way of understanding and appreciation of what goes on in this one.
I was a little worried that the other couples in this series would overcrowd this novel, and there were some scenes in which Arend and Isobel certainly lost the spotlight to one of the other Libertine Scholars or their partners. But for the most part, this couple did a good job of having their love story shine through the pages and chapters.
As characters, they were an interesting fit. Arend’s past is so full of secrets, guilt, and shame, it’s easy to see why it’s difficult for him to trust anyone, but especially a beautiful woman. I’d probably say that his attraction to said beautiful woman was what he distrusted most of all, seeing as he didn’t seem to have too much of a problem with the beautiful women his friends fell for.
Isobel’s personality and inner light shines clear, so it’s frustrating that so many fail to see it. But she nevertheless keeps her cards close to her chest, so I guess it’s the fact that she’s withholding something from the group that continually throws suspicion on her. And, of course, her proximity to the villain. But despite not being particularly loud or ostentatious in the way she fights her battles, she nevertheless is a formidable woman, and when Arend and all the others finally saw the truth of things, it was a huge relief to me as a reader.
I guess the only thing that had me cooling my heels as far as this book went was the fact that I already knew which side of the chessboard the various characters played for before I even started the book. Given the way the story has unfolded, I understand why this information was revealed in the penultimate book, but I have to wonder if some of the anticlimatic feeling I had while reading this wasn’t due to having already learned who’s who and what’s what.
Still, the book was a happy ending to a rather involved plot, and it moreover offered a happy ending to a couple who richly deserved it, so I ended it smiling. And while I wouldn’t recommend this as someone’s entry to the series, I’ll say it certainly offered a satisfying conclusion to anyone who’s read some or all of the previous books.
I’ve followed Bronwen Evans’ Lords of Disgrace, AKA the Libertine Scholars, for much of their journey as they fought to thwart the efforts of a woman bent on vengeance on them for the sins of their fathers. That journey came to an end with the final book in the series, A Night of Forever, which was released on October 25.
I’ve been looking forward to this story, specifically Arend and Isobel’s story, for a while now. Mostly because, in previous books, I’ve come to enjoy the way they interact. After all, Arend’s blatant suspicion of Isobel’s motives causes a lot of vitriol between the two characters, and this is true through much of this book as well, but both characters’ personalities have had a way of shining through each encounter, and their coming to care for one another was, to my eyes, simply a matter of time. Or, rather, of waiting for the other books in the series to be published and the other couples to find their way to one another.
Arend and Isobel were always going to be the series-closer, to my mind! This was because of the mystery shrouding Isobel’s relationship with the villain of the series, who has been responsible for a load of grief through all six books.
Much of the mystery was unraveled in book 5, but as a large part of A Night of Forever takes place concurrently with that volume of the series, it’s handled in such a way that even if you haven’t read the previous book, you likely won’t lose too much in the way of understanding and appreciation of what goes on in this one.
I was a little worried that the other couples in this series would overcrowd this novel, and there were some scenes in which Arend and Isobel certainly lost the spotlight to one of the other Libertine Scholars or their partners. But for the most part, this couple did a good job of having their love story shine through the pages and chapters.
As characters, they were an interesting fit. Arend’s past is so full of secrets, guilt, and shame, it’s easy to see why it’s difficult for him to trust anyone, but especially a beautiful woman. I’d probably say that his attraction to said beautiful woman was what he distrusted most of all, seeing as he didn’t seem to have too much of a problem with the beautiful women his friends fell for.
Isobel’s personality and inner light shines clear, so it’s frustrating that so many fail to see it. But she nevertheless keeps her cards close to her chest, so I guess it’s the fact that she’s withholding something from the group that continually throws suspicion on her. And, of course, her proximity to the villain. But despite not being particularly loud or ostentatious in the way she fights her battles, she nevertheless is a formidable woman, and when Arend and all the others finally saw the truth of things, it was a huge relief to me as a reader.
I guess the only thing that had me cooling my heels as far as this book went was the fact that I already knew which side of the chessboard the various characters played for before I even started the book. Given the way the story has unfolded, I understand why this information was revealed in the penultimate book, but I have to wonder if some of the anticlimatic feeling I had while reading this wasn’t due to having already learned who’s who and what’s what.
Still, the book was a happy ending to a rather involved plot, and it moreover offered a happy ending to a couple who richly deserved it, so I ended it smiling. And while I wouldn’t recommend this as someone’s entry to the series, I’ll say it certainly offered a satisfying conclusion to anyone who’s read some or all of the previous books.
October 25, 2016
FINAL DECISION: An enjoyable end to the drama of the Disgraced Lords series, the romance between Arend and Isobel has much angst and distrust on Arend's part. Isobel must get beyond the shields that Arend has erected while an enemy intends to destroy them both.
THE STORY: Arend Aubury will do anything to protect the only people he trusts, his fellow Libertine Scholars. After all his friends have suffered from the person who is trying to destroy them all, Arend knows that he is next and he is ready. He suspects the stepdaughter of their enemy, Lady Isobel Thompson and intends on keeping a close eye on her. When Isobel approaches him with her own suspicions about her stepmother, Arend agrees to work with Isobel -- while secretly suspecting her. Isobel wants a marriage like her friends, but can't seem to ignore the dangerous Arend. A fake betrothal hides their investigation but also ignites a strong passion between Isobel and Arend while they question motives and evade their enemies.
OPINION: This book brings the series story regarding the Libertine Scholars enemy to a close. This book overlaps the fifth book in the series, A TASTE OF SEDUCTION. I enjoyed this book because Arend and Isobel are an intriguing match with a significant amount of angst.
Arend is a man who thinks himself unworthy. He has lived in poverty, been abused, betrayed and as a result has a difficult time trusting anyone. Even his attraction to Isobel is something that he distrusts. At the same time, Arend is loyal, caring and willing to sacrifice himself for those he cares about. His guilt and shame and fear prevent him from having an open relationship, but he cannot seem to resist Isobel.
Isobel is a woman who has been tainted by her stepmother's evil, but still sees the good in people, especially Arend. Even as Isobel is warned away from him, she finds him irresistible. Isobel is strong willed and willing to go after what she wants. She can also stand up to Arend which is important. Most significantly, she believes in Arend's goodness and is determined to make him see it as well.
I liked the relationship between Arend and Isobel because many times Isobel is the strong one if the relationship which is a reversal from traditional roles. Arend has the poor self-image and abusive background and it is Isobel who must help him accept himself and believe that he is entitled to a good future.
I enjoyed this book as a closure to the series (even though there will be some spin off books). I thought that there was enough about the other characters to see where their lives are going without overwhelming the story and the overarching storyline was neatly wrapped up as well.
WORTH MENTIONING: Although this book completes the continuing story in the Disgraced Lords series, Evans states that there will be some future connected books wrapping up the romances of other characters in the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: A NIGHT OF FOREVER is the sixth book in the Disgraced Lords series. The romance can be read as a standalone although there is an overarching story in the series that finishes in this book.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
THE STORY: Arend Aubury will do anything to protect the only people he trusts, his fellow Libertine Scholars. After all his friends have suffered from the person who is trying to destroy them all, Arend knows that he is next and he is ready. He suspects the stepdaughter of their enemy, Lady Isobel Thompson and intends on keeping a close eye on her. When Isobel approaches him with her own suspicions about her stepmother, Arend agrees to work with Isobel -- while secretly suspecting her. Isobel wants a marriage like her friends, but can't seem to ignore the dangerous Arend. A fake betrothal hides their investigation but also ignites a strong passion between Isobel and Arend while they question motives and evade their enemies.
OPINION: This book brings the series story regarding the Libertine Scholars enemy to a close. This book overlaps the fifth book in the series, A TASTE OF SEDUCTION. I enjoyed this book because Arend and Isobel are an intriguing match with a significant amount of angst.
Arend is a man who thinks himself unworthy. He has lived in poverty, been abused, betrayed and as a result has a difficult time trusting anyone. Even his attraction to Isobel is something that he distrusts. At the same time, Arend is loyal, caring and willing to sacrifice himself for those he cares about. His guilt and shame and fear prevent him from having an open relationship, but he cannot seem to resist Isobel.
Isobel is a woman who has been tainted by her stepmother's evil, but still sees the good in people, especially Arend. Even as Isobel is warned away from him, she finds him irresistible. Isobel is strong willed and willing to go after what she wants. She can also stand up to Arend which is important. Most significantly, she believes in Arend's goodness and is determined to make him see it as well.
I liked the relationship between Arend and Isobel because many times Isobel is the strong one if the relationship which is a reversal from traditional roles. Arend has the poor self-image and abusive background and it is Isobel who must help him accept himself and believe that he is entitled to a good future.
I enjoyed this book as a closure to the series (even though there will be some spin off books). I thought that there was enough about the other characters to see where their lives are going without overwhelming the story and the overarching storyline was neatly wrapped up as well.
WORTH MENTIONING: Although this book completes the continuing story in the Disgraced Lords series, Evans states that there will be some future connected books wrapping up the romances of other characters in the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: A NIGHT OF FOREVER is the sixth book in the Disgraced Lords series. The romance can be read as a standalone although there is an overarching story in the series that finishes in this book.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
October 25, 2016
Purchase Link ► http://amzn.to/2bkth8j
Series Link ►http://amzn.to/2bTyiAh
Arend Aubury has a problem with trust. He had given so much in the past, and it had cost him a lot, and nearly his life. He trusts no one but the Libertine Scholars whom he owed so much. They have been there when he needed him the most and he kept no secrets from them except those dreadful years in his life that he kept to himself. The moment he met the stepdaughter of the woman who has been plotting against them, he already has his doubts. Then, when she tells them allegations against her stepmother, his suspicions arise. Problem is, can he resist the young and beautiful Isobel? Or will once again fell into a trap made by a pretty woman?
Lady Isobel Thompson wanted to marry someone with a pristine reputation, far from the mysterious and handsome Arend. However, she believes that her stepmother has something to do with the death of her father and only Arend can help her uncover that secret. Now, if only he can be able to trust her and believe that she has nothing to do with her stepmother’s activities. Arend suggests a fake engagement, and not long before Isobel is falling for his charms and forgets it was all for show. Will she be able to protect her heart? Can she thaw the ice and distrust that surrounds his heart? Will she be able to accept his deepest and darkest secrets?
It’s quite a task to like Arend at first, he was too distrustful, and Isobel was just too nice – a mere victim of circumstances. But once you get to know his secrets, he will surely have a place in your hearts. What he had been through was just awful. He’s lucky to have his friends that have his back and that has kept him sane.
Surprising, unexpected twists, steamy romance, a dash of drama some action makes this Disgraced Lords novel a fantastic read.
Review originally posted on my blog
Purchase Link ► http://amzn.to/2bkth8j
Series Link ►http://amzn.to/2bTyiAh
Follow me on: Twitter | Facebook | tsu | Instagram
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
Series Link ►http://amzn.to/2bTyiAh
Arend Aubury has a problem with trust. He had given so much in the past, and it had cost him a lot, and nearly his life. He trusts no one but the Libertine Scholars whom he owed so much. They have been there when he needed him the most and he kept no secrets from them except those dreadful years in his life that he kept to himself. The moment he met the stepdaughter of the woman who has been plotting against them, he already has his doubts. Then, when she tells them allegations against her stepmother, his suspicions arise. Problem is, can he resist the young and beautiful Isobel? Or will once again fell into a trap made by a pretty woman?
Lady Isobel Thompson wanted to marry someone with a pristine reputation, far from the mysterious and handsome Arend. However, she believes that her stepmother has something to do with the death of her father and only Arend can help her uncover that secret. Now, if only he can be able to trust her and believe that she has nothing to do with her stepmother’s activities. Arend suggests a fake engagement, and not long before Isobel is falling for his charms and forgets it was all for show. Will she be able to protect her heart? Can she thaw the ice and distrust that surrounds his heart? Will she be able to accept his deepest and darkest secrets?
It’s quite a task to like Arend at first, he was too distrustful, and Isobel was just too nice – a mere victim of circumstances. But once you get to know his secrets, he will surely have a place in your hearts. What he had been through was just awful. He’s lucky to have his friends that have his back and that has kept him sane.
Surprising, unexpected twists, steamy romance, a dash of drama some action makes this Disgraced Lords novel a fantastic read.
Review originally posted on my blog
Purchase Link ► http://amzn.to/2bkth8j
Series Link ►http://amzn.to/2bTyiAh
Follow me on: Twitter | Facebook | tsu | Instagram
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
August 27, 2016
**I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
OH!! MY!! GOODNESS! What a whiz-bang ending to this great series - or is it??? Turns out the author has now decided to add an additional book.
Arend has intrigued me since the beginning of the series, so it is appropriate that his was to be the final story.
What I didn't like was that his 'dark secret' wasn't such a dark secret. Unappetizing maybe, but I wouldn't think it would be enough to let it ruin your life. However, that is just my opinion -- and I won't tell you what the secret is -- you'll just have to read the book to find out.
I loved that the first several chapters were basically recaps of scenes from previous books -- but this time they were told more from Isobel's perspective than from the perspective of the Libertine Scholars. You CAN read this as a stand-alone book, but I surely wouldn't want to do so. Reading the earlier books give you an understanding of the very evil things the villain of this series have done to these men and their families.
Isobel has appeared in most of the books - and while the reader was sure she wasn't in cahoots with the villain, the Libertine Scholars weren't sure. It seemed when something really bad happened, Isobel was always there. So how does she prove that she isn't part of the plot -- well -- you'll just have to read the book to see, but it is touch-and-go right to the end.
Arend, Baron Labourd, is fearless -- mostly because he doesn't really value his life. He's determined to find and stop the villain from harming his friends and their families no matter what it costs him. Arend is convinced -- and has convinced most of the Libertine Scholars -- that Isobel is involved in the villain's plots. So, he decides to follow the old axiom "Keep Your Friends Close and Your Enemies Closer" and invites Isobel to participate in a scheme to apprehend the villain. The scheme -- why it is a 'fake' engagement of course.
Deep down you can tell that Arend really doesn't think Isobel is part of the plot, but because he feels drawn to her, he keeps pushing her away by convincing himself that she is guilty.
There is lots of excitement in this book -- kidnappings, attempted murders, the dead reappearing (that never was really well explained), all sorts of good stuff. Then, there is the growing feelings between Isobel and Arend. You'll just have to read the book to find out how they manage to grow together, but it is really sweet.
So, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope you will as well.
OH!! MY!! GOODNESS! What a whiz-bang ending to this great series - or is it??? Turns out the author has now decided to add an additional book.
Arend has intrigued me since the beginning of the series, so it is appropriate that his was to be the final story.
What I didn't like was that his 'dark secret' wasn't such a dark secret. Unappetizing maybe, but I wouldn't think it would be enough to let it ruin your life. However, that is just my opinion -- and I won't tell you what the secret is -- you'll just have to read the book to find out.
I loved that the first several chapters were basically recaps of scenes from previous books -- but this time they were told more from Isobel's perspective than from the perspective of the Libertine Scholars. You CAN read this as a stand-alone book, but I surely wouldn't want to do so. Reading the earlier books give you an understanding of the very evil things the villain of this series have done to these men and their families.
Isobel has appeared in most of the books - and while the reader was sure she wasn't in cahoots with the villain, the Libertine Scholars weren't sure. It seemed when something really bad happened, Isobel was always there. So how does she prove that she isn't part of the plot -- well -- you'll just have to read the book to see, but it is touch-and-go right to the end.
Arend, Baron Labourd, is fearless -- mostly because he doesn't really value his life. He's determined to find and stop the villain from harming his friends and their families no matter what it costs him. Arend is convinced -- and has convinced most of the Libertine Scholars -- that Isobel is involved in the villain's plots. So, he decides to follow the old axiom "Keep Your Friends Close and Your Enemies Closer" and invites Isobel to participate in a scheme to apprehend the villain. The scheme -- why it is a 'fake' engagement of course.
Deep down you can tell that Arend really doesn't think Isobel is part of the plot, but because he feels drawn to her, he keeps pushing her away by convincing himself that she is guilty.
There is lots of excitement in this book -- kidnappings, attempted murders, the dead reappearing (that never was really well explained), all sorts of good stuff. Then, there is the growing feelings between Isobel and Arend. You'll just have to read the book to find out how they manage to grow together, but it is really sweet.
So, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope you will as well.
September 15, 2016
2.5
I'm a bit upset. I'm upset because I believe that Bronwen Evans is one of the best author of historical romance around at the moment; she is one of those who writes novels I truly look a lot forward to read, and believe me, I really had a lot of anticipation for A Night of Forever, first because I'm a big fan of the series, second because Arend is one of those charming heroes everyone loves and third because, although I'm generally not much attracted to mysteries, I had developed a strong interest towards the linking background story.
However this novel lacks that shining charm that all the rest have (some more than others).
I didn't care much for the heroine to be honest, I had some issues understanding her behaviour sometimes. Moreover I couldn't perceive any really deep attraction between the protagonists, yeah, we know they like each other because it's written there, but to say that I was strongly involved in their love story, would be a lie.
Plus I have to admit that the occasional reference to the "Libertine Scholars" in a slightly overloaded manner reminded me of Laurens' Bar Cynster (and if this is not my first comment you read you probably know what I think of that series), but Evans does it with much more parsimony, class and prowess.
That said, this is a novel worth reading; sadly, it is the conclusion of a series I really liked and enjoyed, and although I'd preferred a more powerful ending, I'm still a great fan of the author and I hope she will soon start another series...because let's be honest, there is an extreme abundance of historical romance authors, way to many if you ask me, but those who can actually call themselves as such are very few and Evans, in my opinion, is one of them.
I received an ARC copy of this novel. Thanks for the opportunity!
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October 26, 2016
This is a series full of adventure and suspense.
Despite the romance between the couple be an independent story, I'd say you need to read the previous books to understand the plot.
Revenge devised by a person who has suffered in adolescence makes 6 friends together to clear their own names. Their fathers were scoundrels of the most carat weight. They used their titles of nobility to make the worst dirt and come out unscathed.
The five friends - Christian, Sebastian, Grayson, Maitland and Hadley - found their romantic couple in this quest. But the 6th, Baron Labourd, Arend Aubury, doesn't feel worthy of that happiness.
Lady Marisa, Maitland's wife, suffers a carriage accident in a kidnapping attempt. But along with it is found another lady, very similar.
Lady Isobel Thompson is Marisa's friend, but nevertheless Arend suspicious of the reasons she was in that carriage. He is sure that, somehow, Isobel is involved in the kidnapping plan.
Isobel must prove her innocence and also that her father, the Earl of Northumberland, had been murdered by the same person who was wanting revenge of 6 friends, self titled Libertine Scholar.
Using her as a pawn to reach up to the real tormentor, Arend is engaged to Isobel, but in fact, he is attracted by the lady.
But Arend's past is dirty, not even his best friends know what he did, and even if Isobel proven innocent, he could never have her.
Isobel, on the other hand, want Arend to herself and will do anything to make him want her...
This is the 6th book in a series and only now I knew it.
Amazing plot, good pace.
Read the previous books make the reader understand how it all started and reach slowly to the villain.
The author's writing, but sometimes too much detailed.
The characters are strong.
There will be 2 more books in the series.
4,5 stars
Despite the romance between the couple be an independent story, I'd say you need to read the previous books to understand the plot.
Revenge devised by a person who has suffered in adolescence makes 6 friends together to clear their own names. Their fathers were scoundrels of the most carat weight. They used their titles of nobility to make the worst dirt and come out unscathed.
The five friends - Christian, Sebastian, Grayson, Maitland and Hadley - found their romantic couple in this quest. But the 6th, Baron Labourd, Arend Aubury, doesn't feel worthy of that happiness.
Lady Marisa, Maitland's wife, suffers a carriage accident in a kidnapping attempt. But along with it is found another lady, very similar.
Lady Isobel Thompson is Marisa's friend, but nevertheless Arend suspicious of the reasons she was in that carriage. He is sure that, somehow, Isobel is involved in the kidnapping plan.
Isobel must prove her innocence and also that her father, the Earl of Northumberland, had been murdered by the same person who was wanting revenge of 6 friends, self titled Libertine Scholar.
Using her as a pawn to reach up to the real tormentor, Arend is engaged to Isobel, but in fact, he is attracted by the lady.
But Arend's past is dirty, not even his best friends know what he did, and even if Isobel proven innocent, he could never have her.
Isobel, on the other hand, want Arend to herself and will do anything to make him want her...
This is the 6th book in a series and only now I knew it.
Amazing plot, good pace.
Read the previous books make the reader understand how it all started and reach slowly to the villain.
The author's writing, but sometimes too much detailed.
The characters are strong.
There will be 2 more books in the series.
4,5 stars
October 30, 2016
I have been waiting on the edge of my seat for Arend and Isobel's story and "A Night of Forever" certainly lived up to the wait. I have read all of the books in the Libertine Scholars and I have enjoyed them all - the mystery, the suspense, the waiting to find out who the villain is and definitely the hot sex scenes!
Arend is sure that Isobel's stepmother - Victoria - is the villainess the Scholars have been searching for. Arend is also sure that Isobel is in league with Victoria, he doesn't trust beautiful women and can't believe that Isobel could be as innocent as she claims. Arend is fully prepared to use her as another pawn in the villain's sick game.
Isobel wants Arend's help, she believes that Victoria is a villain and has killed her father. She wants justice for her father, and then she will settle down and marry. She is shocked when Arend proposes they play the part of an engaged couple to trap Victoria - she is worried that she will lose her heart to a man who doesn't trust her and who could never love her. But Isobel can't help but fall under Arend's spell.
According to the author, this should have been the last book in the Libertine Scholar's series, but Marisa's sister - Helene needs a story and so does the quasi member Phillip who is in love with Portia's best friend. Make sure to read this series from the start, you won't want to find out who the villain is too quickly, the build up in fantastic.
Highly recommended. Bronwen Evans is becoming one of my very most favorite authors. Her books are steamy, the characters are real and her story lines will enthrall you. Enjoy!
I received a complimentary from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Arend is sure that Isobel's stepmother - Victoria - is the villainess the Scholars have been searching for. Arend is also sure that Isobel is in league with Victoria, he doesn't trust beautiful women and can't believe that Isobel could be as innocent as she claims. Arend is fully prepared to use her as another pawn in the villain's sick game.
Isobel wants Arend's help, she believes that Victoria is a villain and has killed her father. She wants justice for her father, and then she will settle down and marry. She is shocked when Arend proposes they play the part of an engaged couple to trap Victoria - she is worried that she will lose her heart to a man who doesn't trust her and who could never love her. But Isobel can't help but fall under Arend's spell.
According to the author, this should have been the last book in the Libertine Scholar's series, but Marisa's sister - Helene needs a story and so does the quasi member Phillip who is in love with Portia's best friend. Make sure to read this series from the start, you won't want to find out who the villain is too quickly, the build up in fantastic.
Highly recommended. Bronwen Evans is becoming one of my very most favorite authors. Her books are steamy, the characters are real and her story lines will enthrall you. Enjoy!
I received a complimentary from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 16, 2016
What better way to relax from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season then to read about a love that happened centuries ago. Or could have happened. A NIGHT OF FOREVER was the perfect remedy to all those not yet wrapped presents.
Let me start off by giving the author kudos. This is actually the sixth book in the series but it did manage to stand alone. This is huge for me as there is nothing that I hate more then a book where I feel lost because I didn't read the earlier books.
I really liked the character of Isobel. She is an old soul and doesn't tend to allow herself to become too concerned with the small stuff. She knows that someone killed her father and she knows that Arend is consumed with something that happened in the past. And she is determined to resolve both issues.
Arend is a tortured man. He feels that the only good thing in his life is his friendship with Libertine Scholars and that events in his past have made him worthless otherwise. Both his angst and his sensuality made for an interesting character.
I did enjoy the story line as it contained danger, friendship, love and hot sex. The pacing was fast and the dialogue was witty. I did find a couple content editing errors that pulled me out of the story but hopefully those where found in the final edit.
I do recommend this book to my readers who enjoy historical romance. It does have some explicit sex scenes so be warned if there are any younger readers interested.
*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.
Let me start off by giving the author kudos. This is actually the sixth book in the series but it did manage to stand alone. This is huge for me as there is nothing that I hate more then a book where I feel lost because I didn't read the earlier books.
I really liked the character of Isobel. She is an old soul and doesn't tend to allow herself to become too concerned with the small stuff. She knows that someone killed her father and she knows that Arend is consumed with something that happened in the past. And she is determined to resolve both issues.
Arend is a tortured man. He feels that the only good thing in his life is his friendship with Libertine Scholars and that events in his past have made him worthless otherwise. Both his angst and his sensuality made for an interesting character.
I did enjoy the story line as it contained danger, friendship, love and hot sex. The pacing was fast and the dialogue was witty. I did find a couple content editing errors that pulled me out of the story but hopefully those where found in the final edit.
I do recommend this book to my readers who enjoy historical romance. It does have some explicit sex scenes so be warned if there are any younger readers interested.
*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.
December 15, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
I’ve really enjoyed the Disgraced Earls series And this one did not fail to deliver in both the romantic suspense and the heightened sexuality between the two characters–unwanted in both sides.
Lady Isobel is tired of being the scapegoat for these men. Getting kidnapped along with Marisa wasn’t a plot on her stepmother’s part–Isobel really disliked Lady Victoria and would never band with her to destroy these men, the Libertine Scholars. Unfortunately that hasn’t kept the villainness from using her as a pawn in her sick, twisted game.
Arend Aubury, Lord Labourd, was one of the Libertine scholars that refused to believe Isobel was innocent. He was determined to undermine her and find the evidence he needed to prove her part of the nefarious plot. What he didn’t realize was that by staying so close to her, he might succumb to their crazy attraction.
Isobel was as determined to prove herself innocent as Arend was to prove her guilty. In a weird twist, this unlikely couple started working together. They formed a relationship to cover their clandestine behavior, even going so far as to pretend to be engaged.
As these two struggle to gather information about the plan and Victoria’s next move, are they also forming a relationship that could lead to real love? Sensual and suspenseful, this story is sure to please. Thanks
I’ve really enjoyed the Disgraced Earls series And this one did not fail to deliver in both the romantic suspense and the heightened sexuality between the two characters–unwanted in both sides.
Lady Isobel is tired of being the scapegoat for these men. Getting kidnapped along with Marisa wasn’t a plot on her stepmother’s part–Isobel really disliked Lady Victoria and would never band with her to destroy these men, the Libertine Scholars. Unfortunately that hasn’t kept the villainness from using her as a pawn in her sick, twisted game.
Arend Aubury, Lord Labourd, was one of the Libertine scholars that refused to believe Isobel was innocent. He was determined to undermine her and find the evidence he needed to prove her part of the nefarious plot. What he didn’t realize was that by staying so close to her, he might succumb to their crazy attraction.
Isobel was as determined to prove herself innocent as Arend was to prove her guilty. In a weird twist, this unlikely couple started working together. They formed a relationship to cover their clandestine behavior, even going so far as to pretend to be engaged.
As these two struggle to gather information about the plan and Victoria’s next move, are they also forming a relationship that could lead to real love? Sensual and suspenseful, this story is sure to please. Thanks
February 13, 2017
As I've stated on numerous reviews on here-I am a big (HUGE) fan of historical romances. I usually find something to like about them and give at least 3 stars even if they aren't the most convincing or creative plot. So, I really hate to find one I can't find much to recommend it. This one was just not very well written and the plot was all over the place. I mean, tortured hero and all is a fine character but I really was tired of listening to him tell himself over and over how he is not worthy of anyone ever, and when he finally decides to go for the heroine it is such a quick turn about without any real, new reason. I mean, we have to read his thoughts on this over half the book and then bam, he changes his mind and the heroine is all falling into his arms. And the heroine-how much of a doormat can she be? The characters were not good alone or together. I really struggled reading this and ended up skimming the last of it.
Thanks for NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review.
Thanks for NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review.
November 9, 2016
Final chapter in the Disgraced Lords
After being hunted and all manner of assault on the Libertine scholars we final make it to the end. Arend, Lord Chambord is the final libertine to have his life assaulted and attempt at framing him for a crime. The heroine in this installment is Lady Isobel and she is the step daughter of the lady they think is the villainous. Hence the libertines have a hard time figuring out if she's trustworthy or if she's working for the villainous. And since this story is a romance we have a budding albeit reluctant romance between Arend and Lady Isobel.
I have to say that this was my least favorite story out of the 7 books. Thinking about this I guess I just wanted the villain caught and to be done with it, also there were a lot more sex scenes and I'm not prudish but I admit that after the first love scene I started to skim forward to the action. So for this reason I rated the story 3 1/2 stars and I rounded it up.
After being hunted and all manner of assault on the Libertine scholars we final make it to the end. Arend, Lord Chambord is the final libertine to have his life assaulted and attempt at framing him for a crime. The heroine in this installment is Lady Isobel and she is the step daughter of the lady they think is the villainous. Hence the libertines have a hard time figuring out if she's trustworthy or if she's working for the villainous. And since this story is a romance we have a budding albeit reluctant romance between Arend and Lady Isobel.
I have to say that this was my least favorite story out of the 7 books. Thinking about this I guess I just wanted the villain caught and to be done with it, also there were a lot more sex scenes and I'm not prudish but I admit that after the first love scene I started to skim forward to the action. So for this reason I rated the story 3 1/2 stars and I rounded it up.
January 15, 2017
This romantic suspense story is fast moving, complicated and involves many characters from previous books in the series. I don't think it works well as a standalone for that reason, but if you have been following all the Disgraced Lords series you should be fine.
A young woman who has her own fortune in Regency England believes that her stepmother is behind some unpleasant incidents such as an abduction and carriage crash. She enlists a rakish French gentleman who owns a diamond mine to help her uncover the truth. They agree on a fake betrothal but their spying activities put both of them in danger.
This is an adult romance with contrast between the expectations of the pair. I did wonder once or twice why they didn't ask the servants for information, because the servants saw and knew everything in those days. The working classes don't play a big part in the adventure.
I downloaded an ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
A young woman who has her own fortune in Regency England believes that her stepmother is behind some unpleasant incidents such as an abduction and carriage crash. She enlists a rakish French gentleman who owns a diamond mine to help her uncover the truth. They agree on a fake betrothal but their spying activities put both of them in danger.
This is an adult romance with contrast between the expectations of the pair. I did wonder once or twice why they didn't ask the servants for information, because the servants saw and knew everything in those days. The working classes don't play a big part in the adventure.
I downloaded an ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
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