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The Trouble With Seduction
Rebellious, Scandalous and Irredeemable
Sarah, Lady Strathford, is ready for a little harmless frivolity with a man of her own age and her own appetites…surely that’s not too much to ask! After the death of her beloved husband years before, Sarah is ready for an adventure… Enter the dashing, roguish – and baffling – Mr Cornelius Ravenhill.
Ravenhill, however, is not the gentleman he seems, and soon Sarah finds herself battling against the corrupt and harsh world around her as it threatens to destroy all she holds dear. The question is, will her seduction at the hands of Mr Ravenhill prove to be her saviour or her downfall?
Sarah, Lady Strathford, is ready for a little harmless frivolity with a man of her own age and her own appetites…surely that’s not too much to ask! After the death of her beloved husband years before, Sarah is ready for an adventure… Enter the dashing, roguish – and baffling – Mr Cornelius Ravenhill.
Ravenhill, however, is not the gentleman he seems, and soon Sarah finds herself battling against the corrupt and harsh world around her as it threatens to destroy all she holds dear. The question is, will her seduction at the hands of Mr Ravenhill prove to be her saviour or her downfall?
486 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2016
11 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Hanlen
2 books124 followersAward winning, historical romance author, VICTORIA HANLEN, has worked at a wide range of jobs, from fashion, to corporate business, to treading the boards of stage and professional opera. A lifelong writer, she once put her skills to use in PR and advertising. But her favorite form of writing is stories with happily-ever-afters.
Additionally, she likes to bake (especially pies), paint (especially barns with cows), and take photographs (especially of sunsets and critters) Victoria and her husband live in rural New England surrounded by a host of wildlife.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Victoria-Han...
Additionally, she likes to bake (especially pies), paint (especially barns with cows), and take photographs (especially of sunsets and critters) Victoria and her husband live in rural New England surrounded by a host of wildlife.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Victoria-Han...
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June 17, 2016
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts... for more, visit Punya Reviews...
We were gifted, yet again, by Victoria Hanlen with another marvelous read, The Trouble With Seduction, which is another fun addition to her already growing backlist. I became a fan of her writing the moment I started The Trouble With Misbehaving, an amazing story with plenty of actions and adventures, 2 beautifully connected people who come together through it all.
Now TTWS is loosely connected to TTWM. The Trouble With Misbehaving actually takes place a couple of years after The Trouble With Seduction. TTWM is the story of an American-born, now-exiled, heiress, Callista Collins and her journey to reach a Civil-war torn America to rescue her mother who was largely the reason why she was in exile to begin with. Beau has been a blockade runner and a few other shady things in his life even though he was born to nobility. But being the third son of an Earl, one then known as the “blacksheep” of the family, leaves you very little choices in life. At least for the era we’re talking about. He’d just been back to England after long years on the sea, experiencing many adventures, and some tragedies, when he meets Callista and is swept off his feet by her. Yes, by HER. Quite literally.
It’s because Callista was like that. A larger than life presence. A heiress on her own who managed her own empire even though harsh gossip about her “past”, the reason why she was exiled to England, could still hurt her. It’d already ruined whatever reputation she might’ve had. But Callista learned a lot through her experiences in life. She’s a woman with an independent streak that ran a mile, also someone who knew her mind all too well. She knew what she wanted, and this time it was Beau, the best captain out there who could take her to America by charting dangerous territories. Or so legends go about his various escapades. But was he up to the task now that he’s decided to resort to a quiet and peaceful... a more respectable life? A story that began with the promise of the highest rewards and benefits suited both Beau and Callista just fine, as they begin uncovering more than their share of new adventures, life and love, not to mention some villains as well!
On the course of the story, we meet a few interesting secondary characters. One was only by mention, the other, who was linked to the previous character. The former was Sarah, Viscountess Falgate, the later her husband, Viscount Falgate, who went by as Lord Falgate, or simply Falgate. It was mentioned from the very beginning that Sarah was missing, and Callista, her best friend, deemed Falgate to be the criminal behind it all. Sarah was missing for so long that they deemed her dead already, a fact that Callista couldn’t take in easily. Throughout the story she had harassed Falgate one way or the other, who, though a handsome man, always seemed to be in a dark mood... and either perpetually drunk or in a drunken stupor. I won’t go into the details of Sarah’s fate as its still unknown, but I knew this— Falgate didn’t seem like a legitimate villain even though he’d also been mean to Callista a few times and answered to her pokes and jibes with his own. He didn’t seem like someone who was happy to have lost his wife, though Callista would beg to differ and say all were a ruse. Even so, I was intrigued by him and wanted know his backstory with Sarah.
Then Lo and Behold! Ms. Hanlen granted my wish sooner than I had hoped she would. As I mentioned earlier, TTWS takes quite a few years before TTWM, which means no resolution is found in here. We’re rather treated with her introduction to Mr. Damen Ravenhill and some more adventures of their own which brought them together. Their match was unexpected, as Damen was largely a recluse, plus had a vague past compared to his brother Cornelius, the original source of Sarah attraction. But Cornelius is a known womanizer, and was previously been rude to Sarah, which dumped a bucket-load of cold water in her expectations. However, things weren’t quite the same when they met again some months later.......
Sarah had already been married twice when we meet her, both with men much, much older than her. It wasn’t anything abnormal at that time; both her marriages were arranged by her father. Even though the first husband died shortly after her marriage, the second one, Lord Strathford, was a bit closer to her age. The age difference was still there but Sarah wasn’t a green girl anymore. Her relationship with Strathford, who was also a brilliant inventor, was a good one. Just how brilliant, we find, as we learn of some sex toys à la Victorian-era that were presented to Sarah by Strathford to allay her “need” when he’s not around or too busy with one of his inventions. Sarah had a healthy appetite for sex, and though Strathford’s absence was a thorn, she enjoyed herself alone. ;) It later became a habit, and helped her through even after Strathford’s rather sudden demise some years ago in a laboratory explosion. Sarah never loved either of her husbands, but Strathford’s absence still hurts her. She hoped she knew what had happened to him that fateful day, which was ruled as an accident by the law enforcement.
Even though her brother, Niles, was trying to marry Sarah off—quite unsubtly— to a buddy of his, Sarah had no interest in a marriage any longer. But Cornelius was the only person who has interested her in years. Actually, as far as men went, she has never been attracted to anyone like she had been to Cornelius’s tall, dark good looks. But his attitude cut her, so she decided to stay away. But then, one day Ravenhill suddenly shows a awfully lot of interest in her. This time he looked a little worse for wear, no thanks to the beating he took somewhere, or so the gossip went. Sarah has heard of it like many others, yet his unexpected attentions intrigues her rather than making her suspicious. He doesn’t seem rude or arrogant, somehow more charming and entertaining than before. Can Sarah’s secret wish, for once, come true? Really?
Fortunately, or unfortunately (however one decides to look at it), it wasn’t Cornelius but Damen. Cornelius, at that time, was recuperating... or should I say, in a coma, from the beating he took in the rookery of St. Giles. Damen being a recluse, and living in his country estate, many in London had no idea of him. He resembles his younger brother very closely, so much so, when he hears of this he decides to pose as Cornelius and find out what’s going on. His father’s old and worn face, now lined with worries and pain, hurts the always responsible, the good boy of the family Damen. Whatever it took, he wanted to find out the attackers and punish them.
As mentioned earlier, Damen’s past is a bit vague. It seemed their mother was a tavern owner (?) and died young suffering. Damen was the one who was with her on that fateful day and that pain still haunts him. He’d also grown up learning the alleys and rookeries of St. Giles, learning fisticuffs, which later turned into full blown brawling matches. All because he knew, in that God-forsaken place, only the fittest would survive. Damen had also been very protective of Cory (as he and everyone close to Cornelius call him). I don’t know how come a tavern owner got to marry a Viscount and had 2 sons but after their mother’s death, the Viscount took his sons in. That’s when Damen was given a full education and everything else that comes with being the son of nobility. Damen though, still considers himself a boor, someone still possessing a rough edge. Certainly not someone who should handle a delicately beautiful lady like Sarah Strathford! Yet, the moment he made himself known as his much colorful younger brother, women of all shapes and size came pouring in. One, an always black-clad widow called Mrs. Ivanova, claiming to be his mistress, yet somehow a part of a bigger conspiracy/plan. Then, his fiancée, a thin and rather severe looking spinster called Miss Lambert. She looks so cold and pinched, Damen knew this match was largely a MOC, for money no doubt rather than anything else. Miss Lambert’s father is filthy rich. This was something his brother could’ve definitely pulled off, but not Damen. He wasn’t that type and was rather unhappy with what he saw. Then he got to meet some unexpected...uh, past amours of Cory’s, who also took him for Cory. Those scenes were quite hilarious with Damen trying to fend off those women and cursing his brother and all his misdeeds. LOL And last but not the least was Lady Sarah Strathford, somehow not in the circle of his brother’s amours, yet someone a part of his secret scheme.
Mrs. Ivanova has already asked Damen to seduce Lady Strathford in order to find a plan of sort that originally belonged to Lord Strathford. This is what made Damen approach Sarah at first. He was adamant of not taking advantage of the lady but finish his assignment as well as possible. However, after meeting Sarah, his plans go out the window. Damen falls head over heels for her, maybe not on the first sight but gradually, as they keep meeting in the later parts of the story. He, still masquerading as Cory, convinces Sarah that if they work together, they can find out who may have killed Strathford, for very recently Sarah has unearthed something that led her to believe that Strathford’s death may not have been an accident.
For Sarah, it was a pleasant surprise, but not as pleasant as the fact that that suave, charming and extraordinarily handsome Mr. Ravenhill is so attracted to her. She was walking in clouds, happy as one could be. Their meetings to “investigate” turned more and more into learning endeavors, of each-other. And the more they did, they knew they’d fit perfectly with one another. Even though Sarah was willing to become Mrs. Ravenhill, if not, at the least his lover, Damen was in a bigger dilemma. Though the investigation of his brother’s attack wasn’t going so well, with more villains and muck dredging up everywhere he looked, he was more concerned of Sarah’s reaction once she knew he’s not who he had claimed to be. He’d deceived her on the get go, Damen knew it well and it ate him alive every time they had a wonderful moment, or a hot, delicious kiss. He’d push her away for a time because he didn’t want to hurt her. He even knew they may not have a future once everything was said and done. However, Sarah was not about to give up. She’d have Mr. Ravenhill in her life, or die trying to convince him that what they’d found is more precious than anything else in the world. They found love. And that led to the seduction, and consummation of Damen and Sarah’s feelings though Damen was yet to tell her the truth about his identity.
Here is the thing, I dislike theme of mistaken identity as much as when one main character is deceiving the other under a disguise. It tends to become murky at some point of the story, and if the author isn’t good in handling those scenes, the story may become completely ruined for me. But I had every confidence in Ms. Hanlen to handle the situation quite well. And she did, simply yet elegantly, without a blow up drama. All it took was the straightforward truth to test their respect and devotion, but avove all, their trust. When things go rather bad, Damen is forced to become separated from Sarah. Some villains of the rookery, possibly the ones who beat Cory up, were already after them. Then they couldn’t find the infernal plan that they were looking for. Apart from the mess that was Cory’s impending nuptials to Miss Lambert, who demanded that it takes place soon and starts sending out invitations, Mrs. Ivanova drops the bomb about her pregnancy to Sarah. Imagine having both bomb dropped on you on the same day. So yes, Sarah knew “Cory” was a womanizer, but she believed that they had something special. And this sort of broke her into pieces.
They were apart for a while after that. In the beginning of the story, Damen had deliberately bruised his face to pursue his investigation with the help of someone so people wouldn’t look too closely and become suspicious, which is now healed. He was now sporting a beard. Though she thought she’d avoided a greater disaster than her unfulfilled marriages, Sarah wasn’t happy. And when she heard that “Cory” was attacked again in the rookery (this time it was Damen as Cory was still not out of bed), she couldn’t stay away. She had to see him. While in Ravenhill townhouse, instead she meets Damen Ravenhill, his elder brother. It could’ve been another misunderstanding, something to drag this one, but one look and a plea from Damen changes everything. As I said, the trust and devotion, especially after he explains everything to Sarah and things begin to fall into place. They passed with flying color. :)
The last confrontation scene with the villains was taken care of rather easily, with some more pieces of the puzzle, including Strathford’s death, solving in the process. After that, nothing was stopping Sarah and Damen from getting married. Cory, whom everyone thought was on death’s door, was now gradually getting back in the world of the living. When the story ends, he was convalescing at the Ravenhill country estate.
But the ending of TTWS doesn’t answer many of my questions. We don’t really know who is this Mrs. Ivanova and her real connection to Cory. Where was Cory the past few years of his life and how did he got into so much trouble? It seemed like he was some sort of a spy...? Many things are left vague where Cory past was concerned (his story should be titled "The Trouble Itself" *eyeroll*). It also doesn’t explain what happened to Sarah in The Trouble With Misbehaving and why it happened? And I was so disappointed to find that Damen and Sarah had no scene with one of those “contraptions” designed by Strathford... yes I’m talking about those sex toys. Poor Damen had no idea what those were; could’ve been hilarious, as well as hot, scenes between those two.
But fear not, I had a chat with Ms. Hanlen, who tells me she’s currently working on Cory’s story (YAY!!). I’m sure his book will shed plenty of light on those questions left unanswered. I also was able to put some ideas in her head regarding Cory’s heroine. No, not going to say anything until the book is out. I just know it’ll be so much fun if ‘she’ gets her wish fulfilled (mine too, in the process). Oh Cory, you’d be in so much TROUBLE! ;) I hope we see some novellas too. I’d love to see Beau and Callista, who made several appearances in TTWS, once again alongside a definite return of Sarah and Damen. The possibilities are endless!
(this is what happens when you get too involved in the lives of your favorite characters. *sigh*)
Even though for the first 50% of the story was a bit of a drag for me, I was definitely not disappointed me in The Trouble With Seduction. When the story finally started going, I gobble up the rest!! 4 solid stars. I’ll finish my review awaiting some news of Cory’s book with bated breath.
I received this ARC, courtesy of Carina UK, via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
We were gifted, yet again, by Victoria Hanlen with another marvelous read, The Trouble With Seduction, which is another fun addition to her already growing backlist. I became a fan of her writing the moment I started The Trouble With Misbehaving, an amazing story with plenty of actions and adventures, 2 beautifully connected people who come together through it all.
Now TTWS is loosely connected to TTWM. The Trouble With Misbehaving actually takes place a couple of years after The Trouble With Seduction. TTWM is the story of an American-born, now-exiled, heiress, Callista Collins and her journey to reach a Civil-war torn America to rescue her mother who was largely the reason why she was in exile to begin with. Beau has been a blockade runner and a few other shady things in his life even though he was born to nobility. But being the third son of an Earl, one then known as the “blacksheep” of the family, leaves you very little choices in life. At least for the era we’re talking about. He’d just been back to England after long years on the sea, experiencing many adventures, and some tragedies, when he meets Callista and is swept off his feet by her. Yes, by HER. Quite literally.
It’s because Callista was like that. A larger than life presence. A heiress on her own who managed her own empire even though harsh gossip about her “past”, the reason why she was exiled to England, could still hurt her. It’d already ruined whatever reputation she might’ve had. But Callista learned a lot through her experiences in life. She’s a woman with an independent streak that ran a mile, also someone who knew her mind all too well. She knew what she wanted, and this time it was Beau, the best captain out there who could take her to America by charting dangerous territories. Or so legends go about his various escapades. But was he up to the task now that he’s decided to resort to a quiet and peaceful... a more respectable life? A story that began with the promise of the highest rewards and benefits suited both Beau and Callista just fine, as they begin uncovering more than their share of new adventures, life and love, not to mention some villains as well!
On the course of the story, we meet a few interesting secondary characters. One was only by mention, the other, who was linked to the previous character. The former was Sarah, Viscountess Falgate, the later her husband, Viscount Falgate, who went by as Lord Falgate, or simply Falgate. It was mentioned from the very beginning that Sarah was missing, and Callista, her best friend, deemed Falgate to be the criminal behind it all. Sarah was missing for so long that they deemed her dead already, a fact that Callista couldn’t take in easily. Throughout the story she had harassed Falgate one way or the other, who, though a handsome man, always seemed to be in a dark mood... and either perpetually drunk or in a drunken stupor. I won’t go into the details of Sarah’s fate as its still unknown, but I knew this— Falgate didn’t seem like a legitimate villain even though he’d also been mean to Callista a few times and answered to her pokes and jibes with his own. He didn’t seem like someone who was happy to have lost his wife, though Callista would beg to differ and say all were a ruse. Even so, I was intrigued by him and wanted know his backstory with Sarah.
Then Lo and Behold! Ms. Hanlen granted my wish sooner than I had hoped she would. As I mentioned earlier, TTWS takes quite a few years before TTWM, which means no resolution is found in here. We’re rather treated with her introduction to Mr. Damen Ravenhill and some more adventures of their own which brought them together. Their match was unexpected, as Damen was largely a recluse, plus had a vague past compared to his brother Cornelius, the original source of Sarah attraction. But Cornelius is a known womanizer, and was previously been rude to Sarah, which dumped a bucket-load of cold water in her expectations. However, things weren’t quite the same when they met again some months later.......
Sarah had already been married twice when we meet her, both with men much, much older than her. It wasn’t anything abnormal at that time; both her marriages were arranged by her father. Even though the first husband died shortly after her marriage, the second one, Lord Strathford, was a bit closer to her age. The age difference was still there but Sarah wasn’t a green girl anymore. Her relationship with Strathford, who was also a brilliant inventor, was a good one. Just how brilliant, we find, as we learn of some sex toys à la Victorian-era that were presented to Sarah by Strathford to allay her “need” when he’s not around or too busy with one of his inventions. Sarah had a healthy appetite for sex, and though Strathford’s absence was a thorn, she enjoyed herself alone. ;) It later became a habit, and helped her through even after Strathford’s rather sudden demise some years ago in a laboratory explosion. Sarah never loved either of her husbands, but Strathford’s absence still hurts her. She hoped she knew what had happened to him that fateful day, which was ruled as an accident by the law enforcement.
Even though her brother, Niles, was trying to marry Sarah off—quite unsubtly— to a buddy of his, Sarah had no interest in a marriage any longer. But Cornelius was the only person who has interested her in years. Actually, as far as men went, she has never been attracted to anyone like she had been to Cornelius’s tall, dark good looks. But his attitude cut her, so she decided to stay away. But then, one day Ravenhill suddenly shows a awfully lot of interest in her. This time he looked a little worse for wear, no thanks to the beating he took somewhere, or so the gossip went. Sarah has heard of it like many others, yet his unexpected attentions intrigues her rather than making her suspicious. He doesn’t seem rude or arrogant, somehow more charming and entertaining than before. Can Sarah’s secret wish, for once, come true? Really?
Fortunately, or unfortunately (however one decides to look at it), it wasn’t Cornelius but Damen. Cornelius, at that time, was recuperating... or should I say, in a coma, from the beating he took in the rookery of St. Giles. Damen being a recluse, and living in his country estate, many in London had no idea of him. He resembles his younger brother very closely, so much so, when he hears of this he decides to pose as Cornelius and find out what’s going on. His father’s old and worn face, now lined with worries and pain, hurts the always responsible, the good boy of the family Damen. Whatever it took, he wanted to find out the attackers and punish them.
As mentioned earlier, Damen’s past is a bit vague. It seemed their mother was a tavern owner (?) and died young suffering. Damen was the one who was with her on that fateful day and that pain still haunts him. He’d also grown up learning the alleys and rookeries of St. Giles, learning fisticuffs, which later turned into full blown brawling matches. All because he knew, in that God-forsaken place, only the fittest would survive. Damen had also been very protective of Cory (as he and everyone close to Cornelius call him). I don’t know how come a tavern owner got to marry a Viscount and had 2 sons but after their mother’s death, the Viscount took his sons in. That’s when Damen was given a full education and everything else that comes with being the son of nobility. Damen though, still considers himself a boor, someone still possessing a rough edge. Certainly not someone who should handle a delicately beautiful lady like Sarah Strathford! Yet, the moment he made himself known as his much colorful younger brother, women of all shapes and size came pouring in. One, an always black-clad widow called Mrs. Ivanova, claiming to be his mistress, yet somehow a part of a bigger conspiracy/plan. Then, his fiancée, a thin and rather severe looking spinster called Miss Lambert. She looks so cold and pinched, Damen knew this match was largely a MOC, for money no doubt rather than anything else. Miss Lambert’s father is filthy rich. This was something his brother could’ve definitely pulled off, but not Damen. He wasn’t that type and was rather unhappy with what he saw. Then he got to meet some unexpected...uh, past amours of Cory’s, who also took him for Cory. Those scenes were quite hilarious with Damen trying to fend off those women and cursing his brother and all his misdeeds. LOL And last but not the least was Lady Sarah Strathford, somehow not in the circle of his brother’s amours, yet someone a part of his secret scheme.
Mrs. Ivanova has already asked Damen to seduce Lady Strathford in order to find a plan of sort that originally belonged to Lord Strathford. This is what made Damen approach Sarah at first. He was adamant of not taking advantage of the lady but finish his assignment as well as possible. However, after meeting Sarah, his plans go out the window. Damen falls head over heels for her, maybe not on the first sight but gradually, as they keep meeting in the later parts of the story. He, still masquerading as Cory, convinces Sarah that if they work together, they can find out who may have killed Strathford, for very recently Sarah has unearthed something that led her to believe that Strathford’s death may not have been an accident.
For Sarah, it was a pleasant surprise, but not as pleasant as the fact that that suave, charming and extraordinarily handsome Mr. Ravenhill is so attracted to her. She was walking in clouds, happy as one could be. Their meetings to “investigate” turned more and more into learning endeavors, of each-other. And the more they did, they knew they’d fit perfectly with one another. Even though Sarah was willing to become Mrs. Ravenhill, if not, at the least his lover, Damen was in a bigger dilemma. Though the investigation of his brother’s attack wasn’t going so well, with more villains and muck dredging up everywhere he looked, he was more concerned of Sarah’s reaction once she knew he’s not who he had claimed to be. He’d deceived her on the get go, Damen knew it well and it ate him alive every time they had a wonderful moment, or a hot, delicious kiss. He’d push her away for a time because he didn’t want to hurt her. He even knew they may not have a future once everything was said and done. However, Sarah was not about to give up. She’d have Mr. Ravenhill in her life, or die trying to convince him that what they’d found is more precious than anything else in the world. They found love. And that led to the seduction, and consummation of Damen and Sarah’s feelings though Damen was yet to tell her the truth about his identity.
Here is the thing, I dislike theme of mistaken identity as much as when one main character is deceiving the other under a disguise. It tends to become murky at some point of the story, and if the author isn’t good in handling those scenes, the story may become completely ruined for me. But I had every confidence in Ms. Hanlen to handle the situation quite well. And she did, simply yet elegantly, without a blow up drama. All it took was the straightforward truth to test their respect and devotion, but avove all, their trust. When things go rather bad, Damen is forced to become separated from Sarah. Some villains of the rookery, possibly the ones who beat Cory up, were already after them. Then they couldn’t find the infernal plan that they were looking for. Apart from the mess that was Cory’s impending nuptials to Miss Lambert, who demanded that it takes place soon and starts sending out invitations, Mrs. Ivanova drops the bomb about her pregnancy to Sarah. Imagine having both bomb dropped on you on the same day. So yes, Sarah knew “Cory” was a womanizer, but she believed that they had something special. And this sort of broke her into pieces.
They were apart for a while after that. In the beginning of the story, Damen had deliberately bruised his face to pursue his investigation with the help of someone so people wouldn’t look too closely and become suspicious, which is now healed. He was now sporting a beard. Though she thought she’d avoided a greater disaster than her unfulfilled marriages, Sarah wasn’t happy. And when she heard that “Cory” was attacked again in the rookery (this time it was Damen as Cory was still not out of bed), she couldn’t stay away. She had to see him. While in Ravenhill townhouse, instead she meets Damen Ravenhill, his elder brother. It could’ve been another misunderstanding, something to drag this one, but one look and a plea from Damen changes everything. As I said, the trust and devotion, especially after he explains everything to Sarah and things begin to fall into place. They passed with flying color. :)
The last confrontation scene with the villains was taken care of rather easily, with some more pieces of the puzzle, including Strathford’s death, solving in the process. After that, nothing was stopping Sarah and Damen from getting married. Cory, whom everyone thought was on death’s door, was now gradually getting back in the world of the living. When the story ends, he was convalescing at the Ravenhill country estate.
But the ending of TTWS doesn’t answer many of my questions. We don’t really know who is this Mrs. Ivanova and her real connection to Cory. Where was Cory the past few years of his life and how did he got into so much trouble? It seemed like he was some sort of a spy...? Many things are left vague where Cory past was concerned (his story should be titled "The Trouble Itself" *eyeroll*). It also doesn’t explain what happened to Sarah in The Trouble With Misbehaving and why it happened? And I was so disappointed to find that Damen and Sarah had no scene with one of those “contraptions” designed by Strathford... yes I’m talking about those sex toys. Poor Damen had no idea what those were; could’ve been hilarious, as well as hot, scenes between those two.
But fear not, I had a chat with Ms. Hanlen, who tells me she’s currently working on Cory’s story (YAY!!). I’m sure his book will shed plenty of light on those questions left unanswered. I also was able to put some ideas in her head regarding Cory’s heroine. No, not going to say anything until the book is out. I just know it’ll be so much fun if ‘she’ gets her wish fulfilled (mine too, in the process). Oh Cory, you’d be in so much TROUBLE! ;) I hope we see some novellas too. I’d love to see Beau and Callista, who made several appearances in TTWS, once again alongside a definite return of Sarah and Damen. The possibilities are endless!
(this is what happens when you get too involved in the lives of your favorite characters. *sigh*)
Even though for the first 50% of the story was a bit of a drag for me, I was definitely not disappointed me in The Trouble With Seduction. When the story finally started going, I gobble up the rest!! 4 solid stars. I’ll finish my review awaiting some news of Cory’s book with bated breath.
I received this ARC, courtesy of Carina UK, via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2017
The Trouble with Seduction by Victoria Hanlen, Harper Collins Publishers, Carina, April 25th, 2016, Genre: Regency/Victorian/Historical Romance. Warning: May Contain Spoilers.
Set in London, England in 1855, The Trouble with Seduction is a fun and engaging historical romance. Many romance novels I’ve read are character driven and short on plot; Hanlen weaves her plot and characters together expertly. Victoria Hanlen combines humor, mistaken identity, mystery, intrigue, and intense passion in an engrossing read I’m not likely to soon forget.
Straight from the outset, we’re introduced to Sarah, a financially independent, twice-widowed, respectable young woman, still sporting frumpy black attire after two years in mourning for her deceased inventor husband, Edward. Sarah is under pressure from her brother to marry his best friend and is inundated with workmen hired to help renovate her mansion. A discovery is made on her property, leading Inspector Hooker to accuse her of murdering Edward. Meanwhile, Cornelius “Cory” Ravenhill is in a coma after being beaten within an inch of his life by thugs. Seeking justice, Cory’s older brother Damen, a close enough match to pass as Cory’s twin, pretends to be Cory and retraces his steps across Mayfair, Liverpool, and St. Giles. As the plot thickens, Damen forms an alliance with Sarah to clear her name and discover who was behind the attack on “him”, i.e. his brother Cory. Cory’s supposed mistress instructs Damen to seduce Sarah to get to Edward’s engine design, but the trouble with seduction, as Damen learns, is that often the seducer falls head over heels in love.
While I admired Sarah’s devotion to her family and their image of respectability, this proved to be a strong barrier against Sarah giving in to her romantic desire for Damen. Sarah’s social work at the mission and compassion for those in need was moving and endearing. Sarah proved herself brave as well as intelligent in several serious situations. Damen’s recurring feelings of unworthiness and his guilt at having lied to her about his identity initially made it difficult for him to accept Sarah’s love. Romantic scenes were fiery, passionate, and draw the reader in. The sparks flew between Sarah and Damen in an electrifying, riveting way. Both characters were well developed and their unusual courtship was a delight to read.
I had a great time reading The Trouble with Seduction. I especially enjoyed the additional elements of mystery and humor, as well as the interesting inventions of Sarah’s late husband. If you love historical romance, be cautious about what time you start reading- it takes about four hours to read and you won’t want to stop once you start. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance novels. It’s a treat!
Set in London, England in 1855, The Trouble with Seduction is a fun and engaging historical romance. Many romance novels I’ve read are character driven and short on plot; Hanlen weaves her plot and characters together expertly. Victoria Hanlen combines humor, mistaken identity, mystery, intrigue, and intense passion in an engrossing read I’m not likely to soon forget.
Straight from the outset, we’re introduced to Sarah, a financially independent, twice-widowed, respectable young woman, still sporting frumpy black attire after two years in mourning for her deceased inventor husband, Edward. Sarah is under pressure from her brother to marry his best friend and is inundated with workmen hired to help renovate her mansion. A discovery is made on her property, leading Inspector Hooker to accuse her of murdering Edward. Meanwhile, Cornelius “Cory” Ravenhill is in a coma after being beaten within an inch of his life by thugs. Seeking justice, Cory’s older brother Damen, a close enough match to pass as Cory’s twin, pretends to be Cory and retraces his steps across Mayfair, Liverpool, and St. Giles. As the plot thickens, Damen forms an alliance with Sarah to clear her name and discover who was behind the attack on “him”, i.e. his brother Cory. Cory’s supposed mistress instructs Damen to seduce Sarah to get to Edward’s engine design, but the trouble with seduction, as Damen learns, is that often the seducer falls head over heels in love.
While I admired Sarah’s devotion to her family and their image of respectability, this proved to be a strong barrier against Sarah giving in to her romantic desire for Damen. Sarah’s social work at the mission and compassion for those in need was moving and endearing. Sarah proved herself brave as well as intelligent in several serious situations. Damen’s recurring feelings of unworthiness and his guilt at having lied to her about his identity initially made it difficult for him to accept Sarah’s love. Romantic scenes were fiery, passionate, and draw the reader in. The sparks flew between Sarah and Damen in an electrifying, riveting way. Both characters were well developed and their unusual courtship was a delight to read.
I had a great time reading The Trouble with Seduction. I especially enjoyed the additional elements of mystery and humor, as well as the interesting inventions of Sarah’s late husband. If you love historical romance, be cautious about what time you start reading- it takes about four hours to read and you won’t want to stop once you start. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance novels. It’s a treat!
July 21, 2017
“I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed.”
This is d first book by Victoria Hanlen which i ve read & i ve liked it very much...
The Trouble with Seduction is a historical romance is Set in London, England in 1855...a very good attempt by d author in historical Genre...
The beginning was a bit slow but after d 2nd chapter it got interesting ,the plot became interesting it caught my imagination....i read it in one sitting ....
The heroine Sarah is a respectable young woman full of life even though she is widowed twice...she has lived her life as per d dictates 1stof her father & den her husbands....now financially independent she wants to live her life on her own terms...In Regency times such thoughts...actions by women were looked down in society so d thought of Sarah comes out as Refreshing which d author has presented well in her in character...
Damen( VIscount Falgate) the hero who impersonated his brother Cory to feret justice on behalf of family comes out as a strong ...sensible .... dependable ...reapectful & broad minded concerning women .... a bit confused wen it comes to his feelings for Sarah...
dis story revolves around how dis 2 characters come together to solve d mystery surrounding dem ...fight there battles & along d way fall in love...The chemistry between dem is sweet & sizzling...
Sarah’s social work at the mission and compassion for those in need was moving ..also damen helping her with it is wen need be is adorable...
Both characters were well developed ...the storyline gripping...also i loved d description of hidden tunnels...doors...there escape in st.giles well narrated could actually visualize it ...
I really enjoyed this book, the adventure, mystery , concept of story all superb...well done Victoria ...
This is d first book by Victoria Hanlen which i ve read & i ve liked it very much...
The Trouble with Seduction is a historical romance is Set in London, England in 1855...a very good attempt by d author in historical Genre...
The beginning was a bit slow but after d 2nd chapter it got interesting ,the plot became interesting it caught my imagination....i read it in one sitting ....
The heroine Sarah is a respectable young woman full of life even though she is widowed twice...she has lived her life as per d dictates 1stof her father & den her husbands....now financially independent she wants to live her life on her own terms...In Regency times such thoughts...actions by women were looked down in society so d thought of Sarah comes out as Refreshing which d author has presented well in her in character...
Damen( VIscount Falgate) the hero who impersonated his brother Cory to feret justice on behalf of family comes out as a strong ...sensible .... dependable ...reapectful & broad minded concerning women .... a bit confused wen it comes to his feelings for Sarah...
dis story revolves around how dis 2 characters come together to solve d mystery surrounding dem ...fight there battles & along d way fall in love...The chemistry between dem is sweet & sizzling...
Sarah’s social work at the mission and compassion for those in need was moving ..also damen helping her with it is wen need be is adorable...
Both characters were well developed ...the storyline gripping...also i loved d description of hidden tunnels...doors...there escape in st.giles well narrated could actually visualize it ...
I really enjoyed this book, the adventure, mystery , concept of story all superb...well done Victoria ...
December 8, 2020
Once again I became very anti-social as I became so engrossed in this book that I had t0 finish it at the expense of all everything else and I'm now left feeling bereft. I'm missing the characters already. It's a difficult book to describe- period drama mixed with erotic sexual tension. It shouldn't work but it does
August 27, 2017
Three Point Five Stars
The Trouble With Seduction is a Victorian romance published by Carina UK. It is set in London in 1855. Lady Sarah Strethford has been widowed twice; a busy lady, she wishes to shed her widow’s weeds, and have some fun. But all is not well. Her brother is pressuring her to marry again, whilst the renovations to her former husband’s laboratory have been halted by a murder investigation.
Meanwhile, the heir to Viscount Falgate, Damen Ravenhill, has been called home after his brother was attacked and left in a coma. With his father wheelchair-bound, Damen must follow in his brother’s footsteps and discover the real reasons for the attack.
In a complex plot, Damen disguises himself as his brother to flush out the culprits. He finds himself juggling a mysterious foreign lady, a fiancé , a gang of ruffians and his own feelings for the women he is told to seduce.
I really enjoyed the descriptions and action which took place in the St Giles Rookery. The depiction of this London slum and the hidden route, through which Damen sped, added a good twist of suspense. There is also an exciting element of steampunk, in that Lady Strethford’s second husband was an inventor of automations. I must warn that this book does tend towards a steamier romance than some books in this genre. I was not, however, too sure about the reference to the Kama Sutra, which, I believe, was not available in the English language until later in the century; I am surprised the editors at Carina did not pick this up.
The Trouble With Seduction is a Victorian romance published by Carina UK. It is set in London in 1855. Lady Sarah Strethford has been widowed twice; a busy lady, she wishes to shed her widow’s weeds, and have some fun. But all is not well. Her brother is pressuring her to marry again, whilst the renovations to her former husband’s laboratory have been halted by a murder investigation.
Meanwhile, the heir to Viscount Falgate, Damen Ravenhill, has been called home after his brother was attacked and left in a coma. With his father wheelchair-bound, Damen must follow in his brother’s footsteps and discover the real reasons for the attack.
In a complex plot, Damen disguises himself as his brother to flush out the culprits. He finds himself juggling a mysterious foreign lady, a fiancé , a gang of ruffians and his own feelings for the women he is told to seduce.
I really enjoyed the descriptions and action which took place in the St Giles Rookery. The depiction of this London slum and the hidden route, through which Damen sped, added a good twist of suspense. There is also an exciting element of steampunk, in that Lady Strethford’s second husband was an inventor of automations. I must warn that this book does tend towards a steamier romance than some books in this genre. I was not, however, too sure about the reference to the Kama Sutra, which, I believe, was not available in the English language until later in the century; I am surprised the editors at Carina did not pick this up.
August 19, 2017
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book. This is the first time reading a book by this author and it did not disappoint. I absolutely love historical romance, and I'm not exactly sure why. Victoria did a wonderful job of building her characters. There was a lot of detail, intrigue and, of course, romance. Sarah gets to fall in love, Damen gets to fall in love, and we the readers, get to fall in love. I sure hope Damen and Sarah show up again! I will seek out books by Ms. Hanlen!
July 13, 2017
I enjoy historical romances and this one is an awesome read. All the plot twists and turns not to mention the complicated life of the players. But that just makes it fun to read and gets you hooked and keeps your attention. It is exciting, suspenseful, hot and so much more. I highly recommend it. I was given a review copy and voluntarily review it.
July 15, 2017
Sarah, Lady Strathford, had buried two husbands and now was on her own. Cory Ravenhill ,had just been beaten almost to death. His brother, Damen Ravenhill, since he looked so much like Cory decided to act like him and try to find the bad guys.
The descriptions helped to make the story more. The descriptions were vivid, of the two men, their surroundings, the rookery, all helped to bring you into the tale. The characters were life like and so varied. Callista Collins and the countess were her best friends. The plot was complicated, but the author took all the varied parts and wove them into a wonderfully smooth, well paced and thorogh book. I loved this story, I laughed, cried and the intrigue and danger kept you on edge. A truly mesmerizing book.
The descriptions helped to make the story more. The descriptions were vivid, of the two men, their surroundings, the rookery, all helped to bring you into the tale. The characters were life like and so varied. Callista Collins and the countess were her best friends. The plot was complicated, but the author took all the varied parts and wove them into a wonderfully smooth, well paced and thorogh book. I loved this story, I laughed, cried and the intrigue and danger kept you on edge. A truly mesmerizing book.
August 1, 2017
Lovely twists and turns in this story, kept me turning pages until the end.Excellent read. (I voluntarily reviewed this free ARC).
August 14, 2017
Wow. I really enjoyed this story. This is the first book I have read by this author and so glad I did! I literally could not put it down until I got to the end. What an engaging story! It had mystery, laughter and of course romance with several twist that took me by surprise!! Damon Ravenhill, comes home to find his brother Cory in a coma.from being severely beaten. Damon is determined to find out who the ruffians were who beat Cory and why. Cory and Damon look so much alike, Damon decides to masquerade as his brother. Then the antics begins. Through a series of strange circumstances Damon meets Lady Sarah Strathford, who's deceased husband was an inventor, and some of his papers seem to be involved in the mystery of Cory's assault. Damon and Sarah decide to join forces and solve the mystery of the papers and the attacks which begin to happen to Damon (aka Cory as everyone believes him to be!) The characters and their story came to life and as the mystery deepens, so does the attraction between Sarah and Damon. The author has a way of pulling you into the story and keeping your attention till the very end. I cannot wait to read more!!
May 4, 2016
Wickedly witty, gloriously sensual and wonderfully compelling, The Trouble with Seduction is a dazzling historical romance from award-winning author Victoria Hanlen!
The twice widowed Lady Sarah Strathmore is ready for some fun. Having spent most of her life doing somebody else’s bidding, Sarah has decided to become the mistress of her own destiny and to start pleasing herself for a change instead of bending over backwards trying to make somebody else happy. After burying two husbands who were much older than her, Sarah decides to inject some much needed excitement into her staid and lonely life and to have a no-strings affair with a man of her own age whose appetites match her own…
Unfortunately for Sarah, men who fit that description seem to be rather thin on the ground. With her brother insisting on marrying her off to a man who is distinctly average at best and wholly unsuitable at worst, Sarah realises that if she wants her heart’s desire to become a reality, she must be a little bit creative – and as luck would have it, she bumps into Mr Cornelius Ravenhill again after a disastrous first meeting. Could the dashing Mr Ravenhill be the answer to all of her prayers?
Ravenhill has got his own problems to contend with. Thrust into a corrupt and dangerous world where enemies are plentiful and allies in very short supply, Ravenhill needs all his wits about him if he is to uncover the culprit of a vicious attack on a member of his family. He needs to keep a cool head and not to get distracted – so the last thing he wants or needs is to find himself mooning over the notorious Lady Strathmore!
Plunged into a world of secrets and skulduggery, Sarah and Ravenhill must work together to get to the bottom of this frightening mystery, but seduction is never far from both of their minds! However, with so many obstacles standing in their way, does their passion stand a chance of surviving? Or will they secrets end up tearing them apart…forever?
Writing with all the warmth and humour of Julia Quinn and the sensuality of Elizabeth Hoyt, fast rising star Victoria Hanlen has penned a wonderful historical romantic suspense that will grab you from the very first page and hold you in thrall until the final satisfying denouement. Hilarious, heart-warming and hard to put down, The Trouble with Seduction has at its heart a deliciously dashing and daring hero you cannot help but swoon over and a terrific heroine who is smart, intelligent, intrepid and absolutely wonderful!
A fabulous read that I highly recommend to readers of historical romance the world over, I cannot wait to read more exciting tales of passion, danger and desire from Victoria Hanlen’s talented pen!
The twice widowed Lady Sarah Strathmore is ready for some fun. Having spent most of her life doing somebody else’s bidding, Sarah has decided to become the mistress of her own destiny and to start pleasing herself for a change instead of bending over backwards trying to make somebody else happy. After burying two husbands who were much older than her, Sarah decides to inject some much needed excitement into her staid and lonely life and to have a no-strings affair with a man of her own age whose appetites match her own…
Unfortunately for Sarah, men who fit that description seem to be rather thin on the ground. With her brother insisting on marrying her off to a man who is distinctly average at best and wholly unsuitable at worst, Sarah realises that if she wants her heart’s desire to become a reality, she must be a little bit creative – and as luck would have it, she bumps into Mr Cornelius Ravenhill again after a disastrous first meeting. Could the dashing Mr Ravenhill be the answer to all of her prayers?
Ravenhill has got his own problems to contend with. Thrust into a corrupt and dangerous world where enemies are plentiful and allies in very short supply, Ravenhill needs all his wits about him if he is to uncover the culprit of a vicious attack on a member of his family. He needs to keep a cool head and not to get distracted – so the last thing he wants or needs is to find himself mooning over the notorious Lady Strathmore!
Plunged into a world of secrets and skulduggery, Sarah and Ravenhill must work together to get to the bottom of this frightening mystery, but seduction is never far from both of their minds! However, with so many obstacles standing in their way, does their passion stand a chance of surviving? Or will they secrets end up tearing them apart…forever?
Writing with all the warmth and humour of Julia Quinn and the sensuality of Elizabeth Hoyt, fast rising star Victoria Hanlen has penned a wonderful historical romantic suspense that will grab you from the very first page and hold you in thrall until the final satisfying denouement. Hilarious, heart-warming and hard to put down, The Trouble with Seduction has at its heart a deliciously dashing and daring hero you cannot help but swoon over and a terrific heroine who is smart, intelligent, intrepid and absolutely wonderful!
A fabulous read that I highly recommend to readers of historical romance the world over, I cannot wait to read more exciting tales of passion, danger and desire from Victoria Hanlen’s talented pen!
October 28, 2017
Enjoyable
The Trouble With Seduction by Victoria Hanlen is a very enjoyable read. Has a few unexpected things happen. Will keep you turning pages. My free opinion. Thanks
The Trouble With Seduction by Victoria Hanlen is a very enjoyable read. Has a few unexpected things happen. Will keep you turning pages. My free opinion. Thanks
April 25, 2016
Delightful story.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I hadn’t had so much fun with a book in quite some time. And I didn’t know I need it that much. I laughed out loud in many scenes, which took me by surprise. I mean who would have expected to find a steampunk dildo, right? I certainly hadn’t but it made for an interesting surprise and some hilarious moments.
The author does a great job at fleshing out the characters and setting the story. The plot is engaging and you soon get pulled into the story. So here’s a fair warning – don’t start reading late at night or you’ll end up cutting off on sleeping time as I did.
I simply couldn’t put it down. I had to know how the story would unfold. I won’t give any spoilers because I personally don’t like reading them. However, I can say there’s a lot going on in this book to keep you busy. Moreover, the blurb suggests there’s more to Lady Strathford than your average historical heroine. So I think it’s safe for me to say you’re in for a few surprises.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I hadn’t had so much fun with a book in quite some time. And I didn’t know I need it that much. I laughed out loud in many scenes, which took me by surprise. I mean who would have expected to find a steampunk dildo, right? I certainly hadn’t but it made for an interesting surprise and some hilarious moments.
The author does a great job at fleshing out the characters and setting the story. The plot is engaging and you soon get pulled into the story. So here’s a fair warning – don’t start reading late at night or you’ll end up cutting off on sleeping time as I did.
I simply couldn’t put it down. I had to know how the story would unfold. I won’t give any spoilers because I personally don’t like reading them. However, I can say there’s a lot going on in this book to keep you busy. Moreover, the blurb suggests there’s more to Lady Strathford than your average historical heroine. So I think it’s safe for me to say you’re in for a few surprises.
May 29, 2016
I really enjoyed this story! I really enjoy historical romances where there is more to the story than just the romance between the H/H. Hanlen did a masterful job of weaving in the mystery that Ravenhill was trying to solve, without taking away from the romance of him and Sarah.
I loved the interactions between Sarah and Ravenhill was often found myself laughing out loud. I'm so impressed with Hanlen writing and I can't wait for her next book to be out!
Thanks go out to Carina UK via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
I loved the interactions between Sarah and Ravenhill was often found myself laughing out loud. I'm so impressed with Hanlen writing and I can't wait for her next book to be out!
Thanks go out to Carina UK via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
May 21, 2016
gosh that was a good book!! hot hot hot - review to come
May 10, 2016
This fun and sexy Regency romance is perfect for a delightful escape at the end of a stressful day. I really enjoyed all the different themes that were explored and the multi-layered characters leapt off the page to greet me the moment I started the book.
Sarah, Lady Strathford is finally ready to embrace romance again after the death of her husband. I liked Sarah as a character; although she’d been through a great tragedy, she was eager to see what the future held in store for her. Then she meets Ravenhill, who’s sexy, dashing and more than a little mysterious. I loved the chemistry between them; it sizzled throughout the whole book, and Ravenhill was more than a match for Sarah, providing her with the adventure and intrigue she was desperately looking for.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Thanks to the lovely Jenny at Neverland Blog Tours, I’ve been able to read some fantastic Regency romances and I’d say this one is my favourite so far. It balances intrigue with romance and is a little bit saucy to boot!
Sarah, Lady Strathford is finally ready to embrace romance again after the death of her husband. I liked Sarah as a character; although she’d been through a great tragedy, she was eager to see what the future held in store for her. Then she meets Ravenhill, who’s sexy, dashing and more than a little mysterious. I loved the chemistry between them; it sizzled throughout the whole book, and Ravenhill was more than a match for Sarah, providing her with the adventure and intrigue she was desperately looking for.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Thanks to the lovely Jenny at Neverland Blog Tours, I’ve been able to read some fantastic Regency romances and I’d say this one is my favourite so far. It balances intrigue with romance and is a little bit saucy to boot!
April 14, 2016
I really liked Damen and Sarah's relationship, it seemed so easy going:
“I… I… it’s nothing. You have such a – such a powerful frame.” Her cheeks heated.
“You don’t like my… frame?”
She blinked and bit her lip. “Very much.”
I liked this book I loved Damen.
“I… I… it’s nothing. You have such a – such a powerful frame.” Her cheeks heated.
“You don’t like my… frame?”
She blinked and bit her lip. “Very much.”
I liked this book I loved Damen.
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